tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872Fri, 09 Dec 2016 18:18:51 +0000freebiewritingback to schoolcentersend of the yeargood morning workpen palslinky partymathskills reviewgiveawaymovementChristmascommon coremath centersmath gamecraftseasterhalloweenbeginning of the yearthanksgivingsentencesFriendly letter writingclassroom managementfallmusicreadingresourcesadjectivesbulletin boardfather's dayphonicspronounsvalentine's daywinterVeterans Dayearth dayfootballmother's daysafarispringSt. Patrick's Dayalphabetbrain breaksinsectsnounspresidentspunctuationsight word gamessongswiggles100th DayDaily 5basketballcontractionscowboyelectiongardenholidaysjokesnumber senseplanningretellsolid figuresstate testingsummarytimewild west3rd gradeAccelerated ReaderHanukkahMLKOlympicsPoliceWord workadopt a classapril fools daybaseballbirthdaysblogger meet upbloggingcause and effectcharacter buildingchinese new yearclassroomclassroom librarycolorscompound wordscomprehensioneditableendingsengagementfact familiesfire safetyfontsgamegeographygonoodlegraduationgrandparentsgraphicsgraphingguest bloggerhabitatshome readinginterventionletter soundsmain ideamarch madnessmini book templatemini readersmorning workpatternsplantspondpostcard exchangeprogress monitoringquestionsquotesread aloudsreading responsered ribbon weekrewardsrodeosecond gradeshare timeshort ashort vowelssmarter balancedsuper heroesteacher tipstransitionsvegaswearable workwhole classTeacher Idea Factoryhttp://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Parker Jones)Blogger469125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-6482458399124724568Tue, 13 Sep 2016 15:06:00 +00002016-11-05T11:05:22.153-07:00I'VE MOVED --- FIND ME HERE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bPXrNfdlW2A/V9gVfPaZyBI/AAAAAAAAVK4/4WQyjJ0fUuEI0ev9u0KQsfBO6YLHKZJsQCLcB/s1600/Teacher-Idea-Factory-banner-1200x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bPXrNfdlW2A/V9gVfPaZyBI/AAAAAAAAVK4/4WQyjJ0fUuEI0ev9u0KQsfBO6YLHKZJsQCLcB/s400/Teacher-Idea-Factory-banner-1200x500.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Teacher Idea Factory went and got itself a much needed facelift (we were well beyond the botox point and needed a complete overhaul). Check out my BRAND NEW site right <a href="http://teacherideafactory.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>!!!</span></div><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/09/ive-moved-find-me-here.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-6909134173752560391Tue, 02 Aug 2016 17:47:00 +00002016-08-16T16:37:07.470-07:00Friendly letter writingpen palswritingCLASSROOM PEN PALS - PAIR UP UPDATE AND IDEAS FOR THE YEAR<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know. &nbsp;I know. &nbsp;It's been radio silence since all you alls signed up for my pen pal exchange. However, I promise that I have been working away on matching you with the best classroom possible. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this said, here's a little post for those of you who signed up for my Pen Pal Pair Up. &nbsp;This post was also designed for teachers who maybe missed out on the sign ups. It has some ideas on finding that match.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J2-oHGldA5I/V6DWCOlI52I/AAAAAAAAUz4/F3fH32LpQ4QvPViMPMNftwhfO8zM4JMuACLcB/s1600/PEN%2BPAL%2BPOST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J2-oHGldA5I/V6DWCOlI52I/AAAAAAAAUz4/F3fH32LpQ4QvPViMPMNftwhfO8zM4JMuACLcB/s400/PEN%2BPAL%2BPOST.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**NOTE - just to make myself feel better . . . if you didn't make it in this year, I am&nbsp;sincerely</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;sorry. &nbsp;I wish I could help match everyone, but there just aren't enough hours in the day. &nbsp;I will be back around next year, so watch for my call for sign ups to pop up around mid-July in 2017. &nbsp;</span></span></i><br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>FINDING A PEN PAL ON YOUR OWN</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you missed sign-ups this year, it's not too late to establish a connection. You can create your own match this year. &nbsp;I have a few thoughts on this one. First, pull up your Facebook friends list and start scrolling for teachers. When you come across an education pal in another area or state, reach out. Don't wanna dig through your friend list? &nbsp;Just toss a post up on your wall . . . someone is BOUND to know someone.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Not feeling the Facebook thing at all? &nbsp;No worries. </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Feel free to use my comments on my blog to post a call for a teacher who might be in the same boat -- just be sure to include your grade level and state in your shout. &nbsp;Also, feel free to ambush any of my Facebook posts that are <u>related to pen pals</u>. Same rules apply, ask for a match in the comments and be sure to include details about your class. You never know :) &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Finally, if you didn't make it in, there is still a glimmer of hope this year. When emails bounce back or numbers don't align correctly, I will do an all-call on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/teacherideafactory/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/teacherideafactory/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for teachers who might be interested in specific matches. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>PEN PAL PAIR UP NOTES (2016)</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">For those of you who managed to get your name down before I pulled the link down, YOU ARE IN! Steps are already well underway in the whole mess of a matching process. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">What's next, you ask? &nbsp;Well, I have a few notes on my progress as well as some tips and ideas for you. Oh . . . and . . . before I dive into it all, I want to take a moment to thank you for your interest. &nbsp;Although it takes hours to do this every year, I truly love working to make successful connections.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, it took a book to get into this . . . thanks for sticking with me. &nbsp;Let's get down to biz. I have had a few questions tossed my way so I am going to answer them in a public forum. &nbsp;Maybe you have these too. &nbsp;</span><br /><ul><li><u style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How do I know if I got into the Pair Up?</u><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"> - as stated above, if you were able to sign up on the Google Form, you made it. &nbsp;A few emails have trickled in too . . . you are in as well.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>When should I expect my match?</u>&nbsp;- with more than 600 matches to make this year, it will take me a bit to get to you (a detailed schedule is down below). It takes so long because the process looks like this . . .</span>&nbsp;</li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsOERimM7sw/V6DDtR254DI/AAAAAAAAUyw/9FWqW5Aox3URmaHbateed9b7RYZFuS--ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2336-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsOERimM7sw/V6DDtR254DI/AAAAAAAAUyw/9FWqW5Aox3URmaHbateed9b7RYZFuS--ACLcB/s320/IMG_2336-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The google form spits out this fabulous Excel sheet.<br />(It looks a hot mess as I blurred your emails.)</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sBzzU-bDA5c/V6DDxQGm-4I/AAAAAAAAUy0/oWucuPju3_A0fRyfmFkeaxdj2yMfnYr0QCLcB/s1600/910364AC-1D15-4E9E-A7D3-C640B2DE5651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sBzzU-bDA5c/V6DDxQGm-4I/AAAAAAAAUy0/oWucuPju3_A0fRyfmFkeaxdj2yMfnYr0QCLcB/s320/910364AC-1D15-4E9E-A7D3-C640B2DE5651.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The sheets get cut apart.<br />I match each grade level as some cruddy TV show is on in the background.<br />They get attached to a colored sheet and filed in the correct grade bin.<br />(The above have been matched . . . a little sneak peek.)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pNEZEwoHCg4/V6DDtQXJxhI/AAAAAAAAUys/rft7LeJodyMPoMC-o-IC4aM9HyutryISACEw/s1600/IMG_0752-1024x765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pNEZEwoHCg4/V6DDtQXJxhI/AAAAAAAAUys/rft7LeJodyMPoMC-o-IC4aM9HyutryISACEw/s320/IMG_0752-1024x765.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Matched pairs look like this.<br />Emails are hand sent out. <br />I have help this year in the email department . . . PTL :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>What do I do when I get my match?</u>&nbsp;- When you get your official email from me, it will introduce you to your partner and give directions. &nbsp;I ask that you email your match right away so you two can connect. You don't have to make any decisions or plans . . . just make contact :)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>My partner didn't email me back?</u> - If they don't get back to you within a couple of days, email them again. &nbsp;If you don't hear within a week, email me and I'll see what I can do. &nbsp;I can't make oodles of promises to folks in this situation as most of my pool will already be gone. &nbsp;However, I promise to try with all my might :)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>What if I don't hear from you (Teacher Idea Factory)?</u>&nbsp;- you will hear from me unless your email was put into the form incorrectly. &nbsp;There are always a few of these every year. &nbsp;Remember, it will take me a bit to get to you, but I WILL GET THROUGH THEM . . . just stick with me. However, if your grade level date (below) passes and you haven't heard anything, come after me. <i>The schedule below is subject to change, so keep checking back (I will note when each section is complete.)</i></span></li></ul><div><ol><ol><ol><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>Kinder - 8/8/15</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>1st - 8/20/16</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>2nd - 8/15/16</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>3rd - 8/15/16</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>4th - 8/15/16</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>5th - 8/5/16</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>6th &amp; Up - 8/5/16</strike>&nbsp;(DONE)</b></span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><strike>All Other - 8/20/16</strike> (DONE)</b></span></li></ol></ol></ol><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Once you and your match have connected, the rest is up to you guys. &nbsp;Work together to an exchange that works for you and your needs.&nbsp;</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>**Disclaimer - Please know that it is out of my hands once I pass off the match. &nbsp;I really do my best to find you a solid partner, but there is NO way for me to know that the person on the other end of that pairing is going to follow through {giving the evil eye to those folks right now.}</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>GENERAL NOTES ON CLASSROOM PEN PALS</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Is your head spinning yet? &nbsp;Don't worry. &nbsp;It is actually really easy once you get going. &nbsp;PROMISE! &nbsp;I have outlined a few ideas to help jump start things for you and your new partner. &nbsp;</span></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Set a Schedule</u> - I suggest picking out a day or week every month that you always write. This helps hold you accountable. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Parent Permission Slip</u> - some schools will require a parent permission letter. &nbsp;I made one for you (just click the picture below to snag it). There is a version for state to state connections as well as overseas matches. I also have a generic one in there for local area matches. &nbsp;</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_gYCGzVzuz3SW1OaktYcjh5dVU" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy0Vv_Ka1Cg/V6DPPOWtRtI/AAAAAAAAUzU/3g6pgFwPArUA0QYZ6b-12f5SlN7uRgRrQCLcB/s320/Pen%2BPal%2BPermission%2BSlips%2B2016.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Get It Going Early</u> - in the past, I waited to get the ball rolling. BAD MOVE. Before you know it, the calendar will hit November and you haven't written. Trust me on this one. Jump on it within the first month of school.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Think About Shared Writing</u> - if your kids aren't solid writers yet, think about tackling pen pals shared writing style. It is a quick and easy way to introduce your classes and keep the chatter going early in the year. &nbsp;</span></li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e-ygoHA9tUQ/V6DQBzd18GI/AAAAAAAAUzc/J0nfwKLzXu8ucb5IvF0H6x-AStLU9D0PACLcB/s1600/IMG_3157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e-ygoHA9tUQ/V6DQBzd18GI/AAAAAAAAUzc/J0nfwKLzXu8ucb5IvF0H6x-AStLU9D0PACLcB/s1600/IMG_3157.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This was perfect for a crew a few years ago that just wasn't ready to write early in the year.<br />We were able to introduce ourselves and keep the connection going.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Tech Works Too</u> - you don't always have to roll snail mail style. Your kiddos can send emails or&nbsp;participate&nbsp;in a Google Hangout/Skype. You also can create an electronic book or power point presentation to send. These are just a few ways to save on postage and mix it up from time to time.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Homework Options</u> - you don't always have time to get it all done. I so feel your pain. This always seemed to come crashing down on me around the mid-year mark. Well, you can send the pen pal letter writing home as a homework task every so often.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Scan 'Em</u> - a very smart follower a few years ago asked if it was okay to scan the letters and email them. &nbsp;SURE . . . it's whatever works for you and your partner. Yes, it will require a bit of ink to print out, but those letters arrive immediately. &nbsp;</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you are looking for more ideas and a bunch of ready-made pen pal templates and activities to help simplify the whole process, I do have a Pen Pal/Freiendly Letter packet available if you are interested.&nbsp;</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtRqQAgRI60/V6DZIwpwqlI/AAAAAAAAU0E/q4qum1UB_qUbnzjOvk3wGcO4tZNGOFuZQCEw/s1600/IMG_8760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtRqQAgRI60/V6DZIwpwqlI/AAAAAAAAU0E/q4qum1UB_qUbnzjOvk3wGcO4tZNGOFuZQCEw/s400/IMG_8760.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Just a quick peek at this collection in action.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">By no means do you have to get this packet to be matched . . . that's on the house :) &nbsp;However, this 75+ page collection introduces/reviews friendly letter writing, offers up oodles of levelized&nbsp;templates&nbsp;to help streamline&nbsp;the process, and provides other unique ideas to connect with pen pals. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pen-Pals-Friendly-Letter-Writing-273492" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;or on the pic below to check out the pack.&nbsp;</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pen-Pals-Friendly-Letter-Writing-273492" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-qHBKX67Fs/V6DTKhk_yGI/AAAAAAAAUzo/rqBfXtToZog-2P2k5CfP9y5LYqjGsUpCwCLcB/s320/PEN%2BPAL%2BPACKET-COVER_NEW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, my friends. There it is in a nutshell . . . the Pen Pal Pair Up process. If I didn't answer a burning question that you still have, please feel free to email me and ask (kelleydolling@gmail.com or penpalpairup@gmail.com). You're never a bother :) Have a great one and I'll see you soon. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/08/classroom-pen-pals-pair-up-update-and.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-6254281202661078610Sun, 31 Jul 2016 18:07:00 +00002016-08-01T19:53:59.923-07:00writingTHE "WRITE" STUFF - PRIMARY WRITING TIPS VOL 1<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">How do you feel about teaching writing? Writing hands down is my FAVORITE subject to teach. &nbsp;I love the challenge. &nbsp;I love the creativity. &nbsp;I love watching those babes spread their wings, come into their own, and find their voice. &nbsp;The list for me is endless.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lBQOJBZsOoY/V5ETQzCy4nI/AAAAAAAAUgA/wS2lGZ32Bz4GK1C2isJex1GmkOxIHRgzwCLcB/s1600/WRITE%2BSTUFF%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lBQOJBZsOoY/V5ETQzCy4nI/AAAAAAAAUgA/wS2lGZ32Bz4GK1C2isJex1GmkOxIHRgzwCLcB/s400/WRITE%2BSTUFF%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Despite my college training (I have a journalism degree), I should come clean before I go any further. I used to be terrified of the whole process of TEACHING WRITING TO KIDS. I could write . . . and write well. However, when I realized that littles were involved, my upper lip started to sweat. My very first year in the classroom I felt like I was making countless mistakes and I would often let other core subjects cut into my writing block. It was WAY out of my comfort zone, the kids just weren't all that into it, and I was way more concerned with progressing our reading and math scores. You can guess how the outcome turned out for this crew (insert sad face)</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">. Sure . . . we were could draft a paragraph (it was&nbsp;second grade for goodness sakes), but these groups of sentences were STIFF and lacked serious meat. I hated that I let this crew down and I was determined to NEVER feel this way again. That's when I slapped my big girl panties on, stepped up to the plate, and made quality writing instruction an annual focus ((((fist pump)))).</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My process had been fine-tuned throughout the past decade and I am proud to say that I produce pretty dang good writers each and every year. It has been a mission of mine and will continue to be as it is now my new job at my school (I am helping support/coach writing K-5 at our campus). On that note, how about if I share a few of those tips that I have picked up over the years? These have been the key to my own writing&nbsp;successes&nbsp;and I am happy to share what I have learned&nbsp;:)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i>**This is VOLUME ONE in a two part series as I have SO much to say (and let's face it . . . I'm a talker). &nbsp;</i></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>SELL THE SIZZLE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If I have learned anything over the years, it's all about "selling the sizzle" of whatever you are dishin' out to your crew. &nbsp;If you love it (or at least pretend that you do) . . . the majority of your kids will dive right in and follow your lead. That's half of the battle right there. #teacherwin</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I also like to chit chat about all the careers that you can snag as a writer. As we jump into sentence writing at the beginning of the year, I weave tales about script writers, magazine writers, song writers, authors, bloggers . . . I could go on for days, but you get the picture ;) &nbsp;The kids always get way into it and I like to think that it helps generate a little "drive" in the writing department for a few of my babes. &nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>PROTECT THAT BLOCK</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The pressure is on to get it all in these days. I know. I feel it too. But, for the love of PETE, don't dip into that writing block. It's sacred. PROTECT IT. Throw elbows if you have to. &nbsp;I have to say that I truly believe that it's this consistency that elevates our kids in the writing department. Practice really does make perfect . . . especially when it comes to words on paper :)</span><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">UP THAT DAILY DOSE</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My thought here is to write outside out the block. My classes always write multiple times a day. One rotation during my morning reading centers is typically writing . . . I'd say it gets worked in 4 out of the 5 days. A prompt gets tossed up on the board, I hit my differentiated groups with a levelized template that fits their needs and they go for it. <i>**NOTE that direct writing instruction still happens inside that writing block. This is just extra practice. Read more about this <a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/09/building-dynamite-writers-in-first.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.**</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My levels look something like this . . . my sweet-n-lows get a dotted topic to trace as they can't quite transfer yet. My on-level kiddos copy the prompt off of the board, give me 1-3 sentences (depending on their ability), and illustrate their work. &nbsp;My hot shots get a fully-lined page and I encourage them to write their hearts out. &nbsp;Here it is for my visual readers . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Tpgm-5o738/V5unaCw3bdI/AAAAAAAAUuE/zDT5xeLICm0qi71aOV2ffueAIkriNCknwCLcB/s1600/PINCH%2BTEMPLATE%2BSHOWCASE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Tpgm-5o738/V5unaCw3bdI/AAAAAAAAUuE/zDT5xeLICm0qi71aOV2ffueAIkriNCknwCLcB/s400/PINCH%2BTEMPLATE%2BSHOWCASE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This can be pretty easy to do on your own - especially if you have a document camera. Just switch out the expectations for each group as they rotate. However, if you want a&nbsp;collection&nbsp;of these&nbsp;that's ready to rock, I've started to put all of my templates together. Writing in a Pinch comes out seasonally and offers 40+ topics (all with built in differentiation). Each of these topics comes with multiple ready-made prompts that help further streamline the process. I don't know how many times I have been caught by a chatty parent in the morning while I am trying to come up with the prompt that goes with the topic I jotted in my plan book. My goal was to solve this problem while providing levelized options . . . hehehehehe. &nbsp;Take a closer look at these packets and the growing bundle, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/WRITING-PROMPTS-LEVELIZED-TEMPLATES-FALL-2685915" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. &nbsp;You can snag a free set of templates&nbsp;in&nbsp;the packet preview in my shop :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zRsH3qBkwkg/V5upHdjorRI/AAAAAAAAUuQ/Yi8YsH29V4EHJjNpzliN7-s9ZgfuB61jACLcB/s1600/WRITING%2BIN%2BA%2BPINCH%2B_FALL_PIC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zRsH3qBkwkg/V5upHdjorRI/AAAAAAAAUuQ/Yi8YsH29V4EHJjNpzliN7-s9ZgfuB61jACLcB/s400/WRITING%2BIN%2BA%2BPINCH%2B_FALL_PIC.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Quick writing ditties can also be used as a morning warm-up or transition out of "specials," recess, or a fast-paced activity. Again, our schedules are tighter than they have ever been. Quick is key these days. &nbsp;With this said, I started using a LEVELIZED sentence warm-up page as our initial daily task two years ago. My lows simply copied a highly-decodable sentence. Their focus was punctuation, capital letters, and spacing. &nbsp;Now . . . this was way too easy for my mid-level littles. Therefore, these writers were handed a simple sentence and asked to add details to make it better. Adjectives and longer sentences became part of the game. Finally, my top kiddos were given a word bank and had to come up with a detailed sentence using all three of these words. It looks something like this in my classroom . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxDkx02ovV8/V5uwESso3zI/AAAAAAAAUuo/7Nv85etyhCQxV6KN-FOSFH1nq8BZeBtVACLcB/s1600/Sentence%2BWarm%2BUps%2BShowcase%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxDkx02ovV8/V5uwESso3zI/AAAAAAAAUuo/7Nv85etyhCQxV6KN-FOSFH1nq8BZeBtVACLcB/s400/Sentence%2BWarm%2BUps%2BShowcase%2Bcopy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This quick daily activity proved to be a game changer in the quality sentence drafting department. In addition, it was a great way for the kids to work on their handwriting. You can put this one together easily on your own as well. All you need to do is create little half-sheets. TPT has some great lined fonts (<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Print-Style-Family-Fonts-451559" target="_blank">Fonts 4 Teachers</a> is my favorite). &nbsp;You also could have your kids roll with this in a composition book. Simply, type out the levels on a sheet and stick them under a document camera. I suggest color coding them so your kids can quickly identify which level they are to tackle.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now, if you want a collection that's ready to go, I have one to offer. Each monthly set comes with 25 sheets at each level (that's 75 templates in all). It's a quick copy and cut. &nbsp;Check out these files and the bundle <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kelley-Dolling-Teacher-Idea-Factory/Category/Sentence-Writing-Warm-Ups-192150" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLF88x13NxM/V5uvsl3WfZI/AAAAAAAAUuk/Ou4VeuAYx_ccX2wI-WhrgBYqnep0YNq1wCLcB/s1600/Sentence%2BWarm%2BUps%2BShowcase_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pLF88x13NxM/V5uvsl3WfZI/AAAAAAAAUuk/Ou4VeuAYx_ccX2wI-WhrgBYqnep0YNq1wCLcB/s400/Sentence%2BWarm%2BUps%2BShowcase_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>WHAT A WEB WE WEAVE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know most of you are all over this one, but it bears repeating. Weaving writing into our core subjects is essential. Not only is it great practice, but it often taps into those higher-level thinking skills. &nbsp;If you are a new teacher, think about slipping writing into your homework assignments, incorporating it into science experiments, and using it to boost your social studies lessons.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">But, WAIT!!!! I missed a critical subject . . . and it's one of my favorites to incorporate writing into . . . MATH :) Not only do I have my kiddos explain their answers in writing from time to time, but I also love to have my kids write their own word problems. Usually they get attached to a fun little art project that we complete on a Friday afternoon and they are displayed on our math board.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Over the years, I have found that if a kid can draft a math story, they are able to solve them much easier. &nbsp;Here are a few examples of how I have rolled in the past with this one. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ID62bIDwADE/V5u6GiA9WNI/AAAAAAAAUu8/Zq4O7zZ_8P04wRkQZR-tesxwf9ez7mSBgCLcB/s1600/Story%2BProblem%2BPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ID62bIDwADE/V5u6GiA9WNI/AAAAAAAAUu8/Zq4O7zZ_8P04wRkQZR-tesxwf9ez7mSBgCLcB/s400/Story%2BProblem%2BPicture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Since you are here today, how about a free set of generic word problem templates? &nbsp;<b><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_gYCGzVzuz3N2NFN1gwRWpLVWc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></b> <b>to snag addition and subtraction versions. &nbsp;</b></span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>SET THE MOOD</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Another key to creating stellar writers is to set the mood by creating the optimal atmosphere. &nbsp;Learn what makes your crew tick. Do they respond well to calming background music ? Do they write better when following a break, math, or a special? Are mornings or afternoons better for your crew? There are so many factors that play into it. My thought here would be to just pay attention to how&nbsp;your&nbsp;crew responds during writing time from here on in. If a lesson doesn't play out, think critically about all of the elements that factored into this less than&nbsp;desirable&nbsp;outcome. Following a rotten writing activity in my room, I was often able to connect the dots to figure out where my missteps were with a certain crew. Maybe I put my write too close to another rigorous activity or I tried to run the dang thing in the afternoon. Maybe I didn't provide an example or frontload my expectations enough. Although every group of students is different, patterns will arise if you look closely.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>FREE SAMPLES</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Okay, so I mentioned this one above, but it deserves it's own category. It's like Costco . . . EVERY ONE loves a SAMPLE!!! This pertains to writing in the primary grades too. So many of our kids these days need to know VISUALLY what we are asking for. Not only does it help them to see an end goal, they are able to evaluate their work easily and critically. Some years you will only need samples at the beginning of the year or when you change the game in writing (lucky you). Other years, you will have to post a visual all flippin' year ((((sigh)))). Although it can be a pain, providing a visual sample showing exactly what you want is one of those ingredients that you don't want to forget to put in the bowl. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>GO SLOW TO GO FAST LATER</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It may seem like a turtle's pace, but I am telling you . . . go slow up front. The pressure is on to get going and reach that end goal, but the old adage comes to mind. <i>Pay me now or pay me later. </i>Pay now, my friends . . . PAY NOW. You will build much stronger writers if you lay a solid foundation up front. **I will get off of my soapbox now.**</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJUADTOz0o/V5vXhduwU8I/AAAAAAAAUwo/Bc42o7_aq24IiS7mxQH5SFNu0PAGSPuJwCLcB/s1600/Go%2BSlow%2BFast%2BLater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJUADTOz0o/V5vXhduwU8I/AAAAAAAAUwo/Bc42o7_aq24IiS7mxQH5SFNu0PAGSPuJwCLcB/s320/Go%2BSlow%2BFast%2BLater.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><b><span style="font-size: large;">TALK IT OUT</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My final thought today is to reach out to the teachers that sandwich&nbsp;your&nbsp;grade level. Talk about writing and expectations. </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">What should our kids know coming in my door and what should they know going out? Where are the holes? What are we doing right? What do we struggle with? Collaboration is key here my friends. So, offer to make a coffee run or show up with a bag of chocolates and make time to chat with your fellow teachers. It can be such an eye opening experience. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright . . . so there you have it. &nbsp;Volume One of a two part post highlighting thoughts on keeping it real in the primary writing department this year. Join me in a few weeks for the second installment. Looking for other primary writing ideas? &nbsp;Check out my blog posts on pacing and engaging writing activities&nbsp;<a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/09/building-dynamite-writers-in-first.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Thanks bunches, gang. I'll see you soon. &nbsp;</span><br /><br /><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-write-stuff-primary-writing-tips.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-4534311652099398614Tue, 26 Jul 2016 00:11:00 +00002016-08-02T14:55:28.512-07:00freebiemusictransitionsTUNE INTO MUSIC IN THE CLASSROOM <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Want to up your music game in the classroom this year? I have a handful of quick and easy ways to supplement your core&nbsp;curriculum&nbsp;with rhyme/rhythm, music, and movement. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8CQAswJtxU/V46_wrIUGgI/AAAAAAAAUbo/MkUWajMirgwJ-WSsWprnrA4uMneeyDNwwCLcB/s1600/Classroom%2BMusic%2BPhoto%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8CQAswJtxU/V46_wrIUGgI/AAAAAAAAUbo/MkUWajMirgwJ-WSsWprnrA4uMneeyDNwwCLcB/s400/Classroom%2BMusic%2BPhoto%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Let me back up for a moment and explain why music is such a powerful classroom tool. Think about how our students process information for a moment. We have visual, auditory,&nbsp;kinesthetic, and tactual/emotional learners in our rooms. As educators, we are no strangers to striving to develop well-rounded lessons that tap into all of these modalities.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Let's now use our knowledge on human brain processing to think about how rhyme, rhythm, and music come into play. Tunes&nbsp;automatically&nbsp;tap into three of the four&nbsp;modalities - auditory (no-brainer here), kinesthetic (it's movement based), and tactual (it elicits an emotional response). But, wait . . . we can still take down that fourth&nbsp;modality&nbsp;with one quick move. Place the lyrics in written&nbsp;form in front of your kiddos and, we've incorporated the whole shebang. Um . . . #winning. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_FDiIx3TyI/V4_pXpp8h7I/AAAAAAAAUdk/MtBPJqU8zrM8Br4NtdyZSFqIa1DKATuJQCLcB/s1600/MODALITY%2BMUSIC%2BPICTURE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_FDiIx3TyI/V4_pXpp8h7I/AAAAAAAAUdk/MtBPJqU8zrM8Br4NtdyZSFqIa1DKATuJQCLcB/s400/MODALITY%2BMUSIC%2BPICTURE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know what some of you are thinking right now . . .<b> "DOLLING! My daily schedule is tapped out."</b> I'm here to convince you otherwise. I had thoughts just like you at one time in my career (despite having very musical parents), but then I figured out how to seamlessly slip it in to what you are already dishin'. Yep. It actually takes only minutes a day and music definitely strengthens our lessons. With this said, stick with me on this post. Let's see if I can talk you into giving music more of a go this year :)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oq7h3eh-eiM/V5bUbagg5OI/AAAAAAAAUmQ/ZxiuuvpST7wyNq8wQTNTyJ9siuq2aS9EACLcB/s1600/COGNITIVE%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oq7h3eh-eiM/V5bUbagg5OI/AAAAAAAAUmQ/ZxiuuvpST7wyNq8wQTNTyJ9siuq2aS9EACLcB/s400/COGNITIVE%2B2.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It's facts like the one above that truly showcase the need for tunes in the classroom. Music not only unifies cognitive function, but it also imprints instructional messages in the human brain 90% faster than any other learning strategy. Um . . . hello??!! Give me some more of this in my classroom! For more fabulous facts and studies on the human brain and music, check out Daniel Levitin's book, <i>This Is Your Brain On Music.</i></span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Okay . . . so now that all that frontloading is out of the way, I can get down to the business of serving up some musical thoughts and strategies.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>JUMP START A STANDARD</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The best and easiest and best way to slip music into the mix is to find tunes that align with the standards you are teaching or will be teaching. There are so many talented songwriters out there who have dedicated their livelihood to supporting student learning. My thought here is to find your favorite musician who falls into this category and start browsing through his/her song offerings. Yes. I have a definite favorite. My go-to song guy is <a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/store/music/cd-mp3/" target="_blank">Ron Brown from Intelli-Tunes</a>. For those of you that don't know . . . he's my dad. Sure, I am a little biased, but he produces professionally-recorded music that you can actually stomach. It's catchy. &nbsp;It's trendy. &nbsp;It's engaging and . . . best of all . . . it's fun! #teacherwin &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>CLASS BOOKS&nbsp;</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Why not take those tunes that you use to introduce concepts just a step further? Did you know that you can turn almost any song into a class book? Simply assign lines of the song to your students. (If you have the lyrics, cut them apart with a paper cutter . . . quick and painless). Then, give the kids a book page template (snag free copies of some ready-made pages&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_gYCGzVzuz3REJHd2NvVFRuU1k/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE</a>) and invite them to copy the line and illustrate. Create and laminate a cover, bind, and stick on a shelf for your babes to read. This benefits you and your crew twofold. First, you are leveraging the power of a song to get your kiddos writing. Second, you are creating a book that your class can instantly read. Yessiree. If your students know the tune, they can definitely read/sing the words when they look at it in class book form. <i>Tricky. Very tricky :)&nbsp;</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j-3QJY91vLQ/V5ZxEVYTe6I/AAAAAAAAUk8/I1P8xiNcktQxqQIXYQ61ZYnNGf7G5vlcwCLcB/s1600/CLASS%2BBOOK%2BPICTURE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j-3QJY91vLQ/V5ZxEVYTe6I/AAAAAAAAUk8/I1P8xiNcktQxqQIXYQ61ZYnNGf7G5vlcwCLcB/s400/CLASS%2BBOOK%2BPICTURE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">MAKE UP YOUR OWN CHANTS/SONGS TO HELP CONCEPTS STICK</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Ponder this . . . the Mad Men types (or advertisers) out there have been using catchy chants and tunes to sell products for years. How is it that we still know what's on a BIG MAC after all these years or which product is the "Best Part of Waking Up?" It's because ad campaigns understand the power of rhyme, rhythm, and music in regards to&nbsp;rehearsal&nbsp;and long-term memory storage.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">So, with all this said . . . why not use&nbsp;these same&nbsp;tactics&nbsp;in your room this year? I have&nbsp;chants and stupid sing song lines for all sorts of things that I teach. Often times they come from the standards-based songs I am using. The chorus can be a great hook for kids. &nbsp;However, I'd say half of the time I just make these ditties up on the fly. As I am teachin' a topic, it just comes out of my fat mouth. Some have been winners . . . others not so much. But those one-liners and rhymes that have proven to be successful, pop back up in my teachings year after year. I have silly chants and sing-song phrases for tens facts, the&nbsp;cumulative&nbsp;property, part of speech, remembering to put your name on your paper, how to spell sight words . . . the list is endless. If you don't feel&nbsp;comfy&nbsp;pulling these out of your bum as you spew out a live lesson, pre-prep a few of these as you weekend lesson plan.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Need a little inspiration . . . <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_gYCGzVzuz3V0VPSnlnU0hGOEk/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to hear a few of mine. &nbsp;Um, I am NOT liable if your ears begin to bleed :P</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>USE THAT iPOD</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I made the jump away from CDs last year. Yes, I still have them in my classroom. &nbsp;And, yes . . . I&nbsp;occasionally&nbsp;still use them. &nbsp;However, I made the&nbsp;commitment&nbsp;to&nbsp;streamline the music playing process this year. &nbsp;You may not be up for this yet, but it will change your life. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It is so easy to overlook music or forget what you have when they are in disk form. This, in turn, leads to us leaving it out of lessons altogether. &nbsp;Therefore, I spent a day during one of my weekends creating pods of songs that correlate with specific standards within subject playlists. Clear as mud with that stellar descriptor . . . sigh. &nbsp;Let me explain. I created a series of playlists in my i-Tunes account - math, reading, movement, alphabet, sight words, grammar, etc. I then imported songs from my CDs, relabeled/renamed&nbsp;the tracks in a way that made sense to me, and sorted them within these big playlists accordingly. It took a while, but I used music with my kids more than ever before last year. Not only were the tunes front of mind as I had just gone through them, but they were organized in a way that made it easy to look them up when I was lesson planning. Again, it takes a&nbsp;bit of time, but it was SO worth it. I suggest importing all of the tunes one day and relabeling and dragging them into playlists on separate occasion (these MP3s will all be waiting in&nbsp;your&nbsp;recently added file . . . easy-peasy).</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**Many of the classroom musicians you love offer items in downloadable MP3 form already. I know Intelli-Tunes does ;)</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nw1UAeu9a24/V5ZUiL8agHI/AAAAAAAAUj4/JkHRl0-NqxQqJFme0rqWtlOphgNNml69wCLcB/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nw1UAeu9a24/V5ZUiL8agHI/AAAAAAAAUj4/JkHRl0-NqxQqJFme0rqWtlOphgNNml69wCLcB/s400/IMG_6801.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">MUSICAL TRANSITIONS &amp; CLASSROOM MANAGMENT</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Music is the perfect way to transition in a classroom. I often put on the tunes that we have been singin' as they come in from recess, when the kids are cleaning up after an art project or free time, and when there is a small hole to fill between a "special" and the lesson we just completed. Not only are they revisiting and processing more in regards to that standard/concept they learned (think of it as an informal spiral review), but it also creates a fun atmosphere. The majority of the kids should know the words to the songs you are playing and most will sing along. Talk about fostering a classroom community!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2z9sDqkwIdU/V6EWq6BvC8I/AAAAAAAAU00/wgXkG3fCIUY4lF_2TFaxCvoO49wWSeLgACLcB/s1600/MUSICAL%2BTRANSITIONS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2z9sDqkwIdU/V6EWq6BvC8I/AAAAAAAAU00/wgXkG3fCIUY4lF_2TFaxCvoO49wWSeLgACLcB/s400/MUSICAL%2BTRANSITIONS.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now, I don't always use the standards-based tunes as I like to mix things up and I just grab at things sometimes. I often put on tunes that showcase a variety of different genres of music. &nbsp;Sometimes I rock tunes that the kids know. Other times I pop on instrumental-type songs. I have found that the newness of a tune (especially one without words) produces smiles, engages students, and elicits more "in check" behavior. It's a super sneaky way to up your classroom management game ;)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">You can find songs like this on i-Tunes . . . especially in the electronic and classical departments. However, I like to offer up even more variety to my students. Therefore, I asked my musical daddy-o to come up with a bunch of short tunes that tap into oodles of different music platforms - rock, country, hip-hop, reggae, big band, etc.&nbsp;</span></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Well, after making countless versions over the years for use in my classroom and his workshops, he finally packaged all of his favorites into one stellar collection. This latest album,<a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/store/music/cd-mp3/keep-it-movin.html" target="_blank"> Keep It Movin</a>', couldn't have come at a better time in the world of education (IMO). Our students, more than ever, need to get up and move, take brain breaks, and belly laugh.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The standards and expectations are tougher than ever, high-stakes testing is a bear, and, let's face it . . . they are still kids after all :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOG_video_class" id="BLOG_video-f86f8a2eff4e497d" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="movie" value="https://www.youtube.com/get_player"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="flashvars" value="flvurl=https://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3Df86f8a2eff4e497d%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dblogger%26requiressl%3Dyes%26app%3Dblogger%26cmo%3Dsecure_transport%3Dyes%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%3Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1483486396%26sparams%3Dip,ipbits,expire,id,itag,source,requiressl%26signature%3DA1ECC2587AADC3E0B252F4D11E2FA7369FFD1B9C.341C226AFB8D28DFD67285592CA61FFFA4AE8C83%26key%3Dck2&amp;iurl=http://video.google.com/ThumbnailServer2?app%3Dblogger%26contentid%3Df86f8a2eff4e497d%26offsetms%3D5000%26itag%3Dw160%26sigh%3DxbopX58AK64MsyACVajAeg9wkHg&amp;autoplay=0&amp;ps=blogger"><embed src="https://www.youtube.com/get_player" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="320" height="266" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="flvurl=https://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3Df86f8a2eff4e497d%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dblogger%26requiressl%3Dyes%26app%3Dblogger%26cmo%3Dsecure_transport%3Dyes%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%3Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1483486396%26sparams%3Dip,ipbits,expire,id,itag,source,requiressl%26signature%3DA1ECC2587AADC3E0B252F4D11E2FA7369FFD1B9C.341C226AFB8D28DFD67285592CA61FFFA4AE8C83%26key%3Dck2&iurl=http://video.google.com/ThumbnailServer2?app%3Dblogger%26contentid%3Df86f8a2eff4e497d%26offsetms%3D5000%26itag%3Dw160%26sigh%3DxbopX58AK64MsyACVajAeg9wkHg&autoplay=0&ps=blogger" allowFullScreen="true" /></object></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The above is what musical transitions often look like in my classroom (please excuse the gaping white hole in my decor . . . I was waiting for my TV to be installed). They are boppin', smilin', and in-check while tackling the assigned task :) &nbsp;In this case I was using one of my dad's tunes to break up an activity. I asked my students to trade markers halfway through the spelling task. Why not do it with a tune playing and our best manners flowing?? &nbsp;The possibilities with these sorts of tunes are&nbsp;absolutely&nbsp;endless.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bH-5lyAzruo/V5D4SaQBbLI/AAAAAAAAUfE/Tnn1BuBsV2Yb5w0dHS9_kiojAvIKWEj2gCLcB/s1600/TRANSITION%2BPHOTO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bH-5lyAzruo/V5D4SaQBbLI/AAAAAAAAUfE/Tnn1BuBsV2Yb5w0dHS9_kiojAvIKWEj2gCLcB/s400/TRANSITION%2BPHOTO.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Check out Ron's awesome new album <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CLASSROOM-MANAGEMENT-TRANSITIONAL-TUNES-2690440" target="_blank">HERE</a><span id="goog_684316063"></span><span id="goog_684316064"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>. &nbsp;Click on the previews to hear a few song samples. A HUGE thank you to the amazing Nikki over at Melonheadz Illustrating for the use of her cuter than cute dancing kiddie. (She makes us look so good!)&nbsp;</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it. A post dedicated to the power of music and a few tips and tricks to pull out of your sleeve this year. Thanks for visiting and I'll see you again soon!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i>**Be sure to pop in on Mondays as this is the first post in a new series called, MUSICAL MONDAYS. &nbsp; </i>&nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/07/tune-into-music-in-classroom.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-4952244712349688023Thu, 21 Jul 2016 23:00:00 +00002016-07-23T06:29:04.926-07:00Friendly letter writingpen palsPEN PAL PAIR UP -- SIGN UP NOW!<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Well, my friends . . . <strike>today is the day. The day you have been waiting for. PEN PAL PAIR UP sign ups officially begin right NOW</strike>&nbsp;. . . the event is now closed. We reached capacity and I have to shut 'er down. Please check back in 2017 for the 5th Annual Pen Pal Pair Up :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNBvXvK2e_Y/V5EEoAK4UrI/AAAAAAAAUfg/UlYLWE2eQH48eW_6EHR3Gnnj69Z_fexJQCEw/s1600/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNBvXvK2e_Y/V5EEoAK4UrI/AAAAAAAAUfg/UlYLWE2eQH48eW_6EHR3Gnnj69Z_fexJQCEw/s400/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">You may have seen my random notes popping up on Insa, Facebook, and my blog&nbsp;thought&nbsp;the past weeks and thought, "What is she rambling on about?" I don't&nbsp;blame you as I have been a bit vague. I promise to take a moment and fully explain. And, whatever I leave out or fail to cover . . . come after me and ask. No question is too small or silly. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I started hosting this fun event back in 2013. Why do you ask? Well, I wanted to start up pen pals in my own classroom for years. Not only is it the most authentic friendly letter practice a teacher could ask for, but it open the door to SO many different content areas. I had one BIG problem though. &nbsp;I didn't know where to begin and finding a partner seemed so daunting. All this changed in the summer of 2013! A friend&nbsp;approached&nbsp;me about pairing up our classrooms. (Um . . . chalk one up to the stars aligning.) Once I had the match, everything else seemed easy. &nbsp;Oh, and my kids always L-O-V-E-D hearing from our East Coast pen pals. After experiencing such good fortune, I just had to pay it forward. Thus, the Pair Up was born.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now that you have a better picture of the history of this program and what I am offering up, you can make the choice to keep reading or bail on me now. However, if you are ready to take the plunge and become a COMMITTED pen&nbsp;pal for the upcoming school year, simply click on the Pair Up link below and fill out my Google Doc form ASAP. &nbsp;I guarantee matches for the first 500 to get on my list. However, I am shooting for 800+ matches this year. I wish I could take on everyone who wanted in, but the process of matching is done by hand. Don't get me&nbsp;wrong&nbsp;here. I am&nbsp;happy to take this on, but know that it takes HOURS and HOURS to complete this task. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Once the submission period closes (when I hit that magic number), I will work hard to provide you with the best possible pen pal match. &nbsp;It takes me a few weeks to go through the LONG list and then send all of those initial Meet Your Partner emails. Yes, I will contact you directly with your pen pal's info as soon as I get a grade level completed. &nbsp;Check back on the blog and/or social media to get progress updates. &nbsp;I will note when each group is slated to be completed and when the task is officially crossed off of the list. &nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><u>ONE DISCLAIMER</u></b> before I hit you with the link to the form. Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee that the teacher I match you with is going to follow through ((SIGH)). If I had to guess, about 5-10% of the matches end up imploding due to lack of interest when it comes down to actually connecting after my email. This makes me sad and frustrated as the "stood up" educator&nbsp;is always so disappointed.&nbsp;I will be crossing my fingers (and toes) that I make a perfect match when I reach your name on the list :)</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SO4JrEVvVZE/V5Nw-hl1MZI/AAAAAAAAUho/G3ewiR13KmofFzgWdal4ugvETMJSAulIQCLcB/s1600/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SO4JrEVvVZE/V5Nw-hl1MZI/AAAAAAAAUho/G3ewiR13KmofFzgWdal4ugvETMJSAulIQCLcB/s320/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">SORRY &gt; &gt; &gt; Sign Ups are now closed :(</span></b></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Before I jet, I have had a few questions over the years. &nbsp;Here are a few that come to mind as I am typing. &nbsp;Figured I might as well toss 'em out and save you the step of having to email me. &nbsp;</span><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>How does it work with Kinders?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;I suggest doing this shared writing style. Write letters as a class on large chart paper and send them this way. You can switch to individual letters later in the year if your babes are up for the challenge. TK seems a little young to me . . . but it's ok &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Which grades do you pair?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;I mostly pair grades K-5. However, I have paired up some middle school classes in the past. &nbsp;My thought here is sign up. &nbsp;I am not promising anything outside of 5th grade, but I sure as heck will try for you :)</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Do you pair overseas classrooms?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes. If you want an overseas pen pal, there is a place to note this on the Google Form.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Do you pair special education classes?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes. I always get a handful of SPED classes and it usually works out. No promises here either, but these pairing have great odds. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>When will we get our match?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;I have to match everyone and that takes me at least a couple of 4-5 hour sessions. &nbsp;I will start rolling out the match emails within a week or so and will be done by mid to late-August.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>I have multiple classrooms . . . what do I do?</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;Just note this on the form in the final question. &nbsp;I don't always get all of your classes matched, but I will try my best.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Do you match duel language classes?</u>&nbsp;Yes. These are tricky though . . . I won't lie here. I have about a 50% success rate on these. &nbsp;However, what does it hurt to toss your name in there? Sign up, note it in the last question and I will see what I can do for you. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><u>Do I have to do snail mail every time?</u> No, there are lots of different ways you can roll with&nbsp;communicating. The internet, google classroom, and scanners are your friends. Ultimately, it is up to you and your partner how you with to roll this year. &nbsp;</span></li></ul><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you are wondering how you will fit in pen pals and manage it all, I will be tossing up a post next week filled with ideas. &nbsp;I also made a Pen Pal Packet for my partner and I to use quite a few years ago. &nbsp;By no means do you need this to pen pal! However, it makes things a tad easier as it contains everything you need to start and maintain a successful long distance classroom connection. It also helps introduce/review the whole friendly letter concept.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WmeiJiWWgFE/V5EE37qd9-I/AAAAAAAAUfk/h1L_0cx2hg8lyZ_hzearlMdfi6eeClfewCLcB/s1600/PEN%2BPAL%2BPACKET-COVER_NEW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WmeiJiWWgFE/V5EE37qd9-I/AAAAAAAAUfk/h1L_0cx2hg8lyZ_hzearlMdfi6eeClfewCLcB/s320/PEN%2BPAL%2BPACKET-COVER_NEW.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pen-Pals-Friendly-Letter-Writing-273492" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check it out :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for your interest my friends. &nbsp;Continue to check this page to see when I shut down the event. &nbsp;I also will&nbsp;occasionally&nbsp;post updates on when to expect your pairing . .&nbsp;. a progress report if you well. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**If you have additional questions about the Pen Pal Pair Up 2016, please feel free to contact me at my special email (penpalpairup@gmail.com). &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**NOTE: The response these past few years has been OVERWHELMING. &nbsp;I&nbsp;received&nbsp;over&nbsp;800 entries within a few hours last year. &nbsp;So, if you want in, get in right now!&nbsp;</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uNBLSGiqxcg/Val81pIYN0I/AAAAAAAARc0/cFNdKfSifxM/s1600/IMG_0734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uNBLSGiqxcg/Val81pIYN0I/AAAAAAAARc0/cFNdKfSifxM/s400/IMG_0734.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here's a picture of my process.<br />It's probably not the most efficient system, but it works for me.<br />I cut the spreadsheet apart and group by grade and sort by class size.<br />Numbers that are semi close and in different states get connected :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/07/pen-pal-pair-up-sign-up-now.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-5555956731888639916Thu, 14 Jul 2016 16:27:00 +00002016-07-21T09:15:21.133-07:00pen palsPEN PAL PAIR UP 2016 - COMING SOON<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The emails have started coming in asking if I am hosting the Pen Pal Pair Up again this year. &nbsp;My answer was automatic . . . OF COURSE! &nbsp;I just couldn't let a summer slip by without offering up my matching services. Bring on the 4th Annual Pen Pal Pair Up. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLvmow95c1o/V4enWQDmYBI/AAAAAAAAUHc/cR5nxUuUjK4uyWxK_ghLR88WvERTg_cEACLcB/s1600/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP%2B2016_SOON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLvmow95c1o/V4enWQDmYBI/AAAAAAAAUHc/cR5nxUuUjK4uyWxK_ghLR88WvERTg_cEACLcB/s400/PEN%2BPAL%2BPAIR%2BUP%2B2016_SOON.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Look for sign ups to open after the big SDE conference in Vegas (Thursday, July 21st to be exact). I am starting the process early again this year to keep it as separate as possible from the back to school chaos that will hit in early-August.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The slots fill quickly (within a few hours), so be ready to jump on board quickly if you want in on the action. In years past, I have taken on the first 500-600 teachers to fill out my online form. This year I am going to take on a few more as I don't have to ready a classroom in the fall. Who knew that transitioning into a coaching/curriculum role would be so beneficial to the generation of classroom connections? With this said, I will attempt to take on the first 800 teachers. I know 200 more teachers doesn't really sound like a ton, but it translates into hours and hours of additional work as I match by hand and shoot out emails. I am not trying to be the martyr (promise) . . . I just want you to know why there is a limit on how many educators I can take on each year. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><u>I WILL</u></b> give you a heads up on the <b><u>EXACT TIME (It's 4PM TODAY - Pacific)</u></b> I on my social media sites. So, be sure you follow my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/teacherideafactory/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and/or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/teacherideafactory/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> pages so you don't miss the sign up window. &nbsp;Again, it seems to open and close in a hot minute.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">For those of you who don't know what the Pen Pal Pair Up is all about, let me back up and explain a tad before I jet today. During this event, I will do my VERY best to find another classroom/teacher for you to match up with for the year that fits your grade level and class size needs. In essence, I take the "finding" and "connecting" parts out of the whole process for you . . . your crew just has to take the time to follow through and actually write :) &nbsp;Pen Pals are a stellar way to work in a little geography and a WHOLE BUNCH of friendly letter writing. Oh, and you don't have to blog to participate. &nbsp;I'm sure most of you probably were on to this one, but I always seem to get at least one question a year about it. I mostly pair teachers K-6 (although I have found matches for a handful of 7th and 8th grade groups in previous matching rounds).</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The best part of pen pals is that the kids absolutely love being a part of the whole thing. Last year's class would cheer the moment I uttered . . . "We received a package!" &nbsp;In addition to their never-ending excitement, the quality work went through the roof each and every time we sat down to draft a new set of letters.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cB37K3MJhQ8/V4e7MyGoHvI/AAAAAAAAUJM/q76DUdmDZt0QiZApiUvd95GBZt5-sXr2QCLcB/s1600/CLASSROOM%2BPEN%2BPALS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cB37K3MJhQ8/V4e7MyGoHvI/AAAAAAAAUJM/q76DUdmDZt0QiZApiUvd95GBZt5-sXr2QCLcB/s400/CLASSROOM%2BPEN%2BPALS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This was the reaction we still had rollin' at the very END of the year.<br />#heykidswegotapackage</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it. &nbsp;If you are interested in signing up, be sure to pay attention to The Factory's social media sites for the exact time the sign ups will go live. Until then, be sure you mark Thursday, July 21st on your calendar :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Big hugs and I'll talk to all you alls soon. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/07/pen-pal-pair-up-2016-coming-soon.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-3714012021701433364Fri, 08 Jul 2016 22:34:00 +00002016-07-09T09:08:28.610-07:00back to schoolBEAT THOSE DREADED BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHTMARES <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so this issue hits especially close to home today. Why you ask? Well, I just experienced my first back to school nightmare of the season. This blows my mind as it hit earlier than EVER this year. &nbsp;(SIDE NOTE . . . this is ironic as all get out since I will have a new role in the fall that doesn't require me to ready a classroom.) &nbsp;</span><br /><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It started out as a normal night (very tricky if you ask me). I hit the gym, ate dinner, watched some junky summer TV, and crashed into a sweet slumber by 9:30 pm. &nbsp;Well, in a mere two hours, I managed to get myself into REM sleep and tangle my brain into a full on BACK TO SCHOOL nightmare by 11:30 pm. What the "H-E-Double Hockey," people?? This is absolutely mind-blowing to me as it's not even mid-July (the usual onset of such nighttime&nbsp;chaos</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">) ;/ Needless to say, the dream turned into a night of ungodly sleeplessness for little old me. I just couldn't turn "it" back off. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_eDdC9OFe4/V4AFDx9qhlI/AAAAAAAAT-Y/u1Xc28spO7MIOdDKduhxgcXUnBck1mvGACLcB/s1600/BACK%2BTO%2BSCHOOL_NIGHTMARES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_eDdC9OFe4/V4AFDx9qhlI/AAAAAAAAT-Y/u1Xc28spO7MIOdDKduhxgcXUnBck1mvGACLcB/s400/BACK%2BTO%2BSCHOOL_NIGHTMARES.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This whole late night ordeal got me thinking . . .&nbsp;obviously&nbsp;I am wound a bit tight this year if this sort of junk is already hitting. With this said, I decided to share a handful strategies that have helped me keep the nightmares and back to school stress at bay. I am posting not only to possibly help others, but to also walk my own talk.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>ONE - JOT IT DOWN</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Many of you probably know this one, but when the going starts to get hectic, it often helps to break out the lists and get it on a calendar. As a very visual person, seeing the "big picture" helps me. A calendar is a no-brainer and just good life practice. &nbsp;However, when it comes to the lists, I have a new tactic. I still write down the BIG things in advance, but the rest gets charted as I sit down to begin my day. My goal is to pick a manageable line-up that lends itself to calm productivity. I write even the&nbsp;littlest&nbsp;of things on my list. Things like GYM, CALL KATE, and BRING TRAVIS LUNCH now wind up on my lists. And, you can bet your bottom dollar that I enthusiastically cross all of these off my TO-DO page. What can I say? Seeing all of those colorful marks and DONE checks results in some serious&nbsp;motivation. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vWptD1xRLOc/V4AKS1ifOWI/AAAAAAAAT_Q/zy0YawnYo3cwcZ36OwzF7ve292CZMLf2wCLcB/s1600/2C0D7843-751B-407F-9840-80CD7F451C82.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vWptD1xRLOc/V4AKS1ifOWI/AAAAAAAAT_Q/zy0YawnYo3cwcZ36OwzF7ve292CZMLf2wCLcB/s320/2C0D7843-751B-407F-9840-80CD7F451C82.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My messy planner filled with lists . . .<br />I need to get going today :P</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>TWO - GET VERBAL</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I have found it very helpful to talk my school worries out with a&nbsp;spouse, parent, or teacher friend. I have even been known to chat with myself when no one is available. Writing it down sometimes just doesn't cut it. Find a good listener and prioritize orally. It's pretty refreshing. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>THREE - JUST SAY NO</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It's okay to say no to people and plans. I am a big pleaser, but I am learning to take care of myself more and not immediately reply to everything with a loud, "YES." This simple notion carries itself into so many aspects of our lives, but it can be especially helpful during your teacher summer. If teammates ask you to meet or work on items and you just aren't ready, it's okay to respectfully decline. You will have time in a few weeks to get 'er done . . . PROMISE. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>FOUR - COMPARISON KILLER</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">While perusing Facebook, Instagram, and other social media outlets, don't get pulled into the comparison trap. &nbsp;Some of your teacher pals may be ready to dive into the back to school push. &nbsp;Maybe you aren't in full on education mode yet. &nbsp;Maybe your prep is looking different. Maybe you're just enjoying your summer break (heaven forbid). I often avoid social media during the first few weeks of summer to stave off this feeling. While I am working in the summer, I limit my time scrolling through videos and pictures online. It's easy to get yourself by the tail and start feeling like you should be doing more. &nbsp;Well, I am here to give you permission to just be YOU and roll the way YOU want to in your classroom this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>FIVE - DITCH THE GUILT</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I have been working on this one since I jumped into the education biz. I'm pretty sure quite a few of you continue to ride the struggle bus with me here. There is always something we can be doing to ready/better/prep our classrooms and lessons. It's never ending. One of my consistent teacher goals is to find balance between work and home . . . and to not feel guilty when I actually take a break to enjoy life. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8xI3GG4lEDY/V4AqFNLsU-I/AAAAAAAAUA8/RQPVPI1AL1kEA34suwDMiEuirGLxIsXYQCLcB/s1600/Second%2BCup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8xI3GG4lEDY/V4AqFNLsU-I/AAAAAAAAUA8/RQPVPI1AL1kEA34suwDMiEuirGLxIsXYQCLcB/s320/Second%2BCup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>SIX - IF ALL ELSE FAILS . . .</b></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This brings me to my final thought of the day . . . sometimes you just can't get out of teacher mode and the sleepless nights and/or nightmares creep into your summer. My thought here is to just go with it. Case in point. I laid in bed for two hours last night. &nbsp;I moved into the spare room for a chunk of time and then transitioned again to the couch. &nbsp;I kept fighting it until I had a little mental talk with myself. &nbsp;I realized what was bothering me - one of those unfinished tasks on my TO-DO list just didn't settle right with me. SO . . . I got up and tackled it. I worked from 1:00-3:30 and crossed that pesky line off of my list. When I did, I crawled back into bed and was out until the cat decided to try and eat my hair at 5:20 . . . kids (((sigh))).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_dHXk5zqdqI/V4Al8PLExVI/AAAAAAAAUAY/72aIDVdnMSYelcIsRj_cUDxkcwvn4NiyQCLcB/s1600/Early%2BMorning%2BPhoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_dHXk5zqdqI/V4Al8PLExVI/AAAAAAAAUAY/72aIDVdnMSYelcIsRj_cUDxkcwvn4NiyQCLcB/s400/Early%2BMorning%2BPhoto.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it. My real post about beating those back to school nightmares and sleepless nights (at least this early in the game). Here's to enjoying what's left of summer and being proactive in the "keeping calm" department as we roll further into July.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that note, I am crossing this post off of today's list of desired accomplishments and I'm off to take a much needed nap. &nbsp;Big hugs and thanks for visiting. &nbsp;I'll be back soon with a fun post and a new web site reveal :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/07/beat-those-dreaded-back-to-school.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-2439209843354482079Mon, 27 Jun 2016 16:30:00 +00002016-06-27T11:01:25.348-07:00TIPS, TRICKS, AND PITFALLS WHEN PACKIN' UP A CLASSROOM <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">For the first time in my career, I had to pack up my classroom. I have been lucky enough to work for schools that didn't require me to box up all of my goods every year. &nbsp;My end of the year duties encompassed shoving the desks to the side, turning out the lights, and locking the door. ((((FIST PUMP)))) This always seemed pretty lucky as I have heard the horror stories from all the educators out there who have to basically strip their rooms down to the studs each and every year.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Well, it's finally payback time for all of my good fortune in this EOY duty department. I am moving out of a classroom teacher roll and into a contract coaching/curriculum position. This, in turn, means that I will no longer have a large space on campus to call my own (cue the sweaty upper lip). I have spent the last two weeks popping in and out of good old Room 18. Countless decisions have been made. Well, I'm finished. &nbsp;I carted off those precious items, willed my favorite treasures, trashed cruddy items, and left the rest to the sweet teacher who is taking my place in the fall. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5PVSdmSmUL4/V21-qArKC6I/AAAAAAAATWE/OEKU_QgtX8EWJ4-589cSsVqEs2izFhqtACLcB/s1600/PACKING%2BPOST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5PVSdmSmUL4/V21-qArKC6I/AAAAAAAATWE/OEKU_QgtX8EWJ4-589cSsVqEs2izFhqtACLcB/s400/PACKING%2BPOST.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I learned a ton while submerged in this tedious process as I had 10 years worth of amazing educator activities, games, manipulatives, toys, files, furniture, and books that I have purchased and/or accumulated over the years. I am going to share my TOP SEVEN TIPS for those teachers out there who are facing a similar situations. If you are taking a leave of&nbsp;absence&nbsp;from your district to head back to school, to focus on being a parent, and/or to change roles/careers like I am, this post is for you. So, without wasting a moment more (heaven knows you will need these precious seconds to spend cleaning and weeding), I give you my PACKIN' UP CHEAT SHEET.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>GET YOUR EMOTIONS IN CHECK</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I expected to be a little emotional when I started packing up my precious teaching things. What I DID NOT expect was to be an absolute blubbering mess. Seriously :( I was on the verge of tears the moment I stepped foot on campus. It became progressively worse as I began opening drawers, bins, and cabinets. So many wonderful memories were drudged up. &nbsp;The cake though was crying in my Super's face when I hugged him goodbye for the summer. Um . . . GOOD HEAVENS, GIRL . . . pull yourself together.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know that everyone's circumstances are different when packing up and moving on from the classroom - a leave for various reasons, returning to school, retirement, becoming a mommy, transitioning into administration . . . the list is endless. However, each one of these will bring a different bag of emotions with it. &nbsp;I wasn't ready. &nbsp;My suggestion . . . be ready. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If I've learned anything over the years, it's okay to sit with sadness. Don't dwell here, but definitely sit with it for a day or two. Let those feelings hang, soak them up, and process them. It's&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;a solid way to move past a tough situation faster. &nbsp;With this said, I ended up leaving on that emotional first day. It was the best decision I made during this process. I went home and took a long nap, played a few holes of golf, cried some more, and binged on Boardwalk Empire (Season 3). The next day as I opened that door, I was ready. Sure, I was still a little sad to be saying goodbye, but I was in check. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>BRING A SURVIVAL KIT</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I learned the hard way that NOT packing snacks and other basic survival items was a really DUMB idea. &nbsp;That second day I was rollin' . . . I was an absolute packing and sorting machine. &nbsp;However, about 12:30 my tummy started talkin'. By 1:30 my hands were shaking like a baby Chihuahua on a cold as all get out day. This forced me to cut my workday short. This brings me to TIP #2. Pack a lunch and/or &nbsp;things to much on. It seems like a no-brainer, but I spaced this one. &nbsp;Oh, and FRESH water is a must. &nbsp;I forgot that too. (Notice that I said FRESH . . . there is just&nbsp;something&nbsp;about drinking out of the classroom faucets that&nbsp;frightens me to my core.)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">In addition to the survival items above, I strongly suggest rockin' the tunes while you're working. &nbsp;Upbeat Pandora stations were dang near shaking the walls of my old portable and it helped lighten the mood. I may or may not have danced around a bit on a few killer songs, but we will leave this secret tightly locked in Room 18 :)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>TALKIN' TRASH</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Most of you probably think this is a rather simple notion, but I felt the need to&nbsp;reiterate&nbsp;as it&nbsp;was difficult for me at first. The trash bin is your friend. However, it can be tough to toss things. We've all been here . . . the hours we slaved away while creating/cutting/laminating, the endless stream of dollars we've spent on various goods, and the classroom memories attached to so many of these items . . . all of these join and drive us to hold on to senseless items. Break the dam. &nbsp;Toss something . . . it's liberating. Once those first few items get trashed, the decisions get much easier and you'll need to sweet talk the custodian into a handful of those HUGE bags ;)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKPrWN64fFA/V3FMt2IG2vI/AAAAAAAATY8/-urSaH9dwaoLOUJq74LACGUDZVqEh-RCwCLcB/s1600/LETTING%2BGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKPrWN64fFA/V3FMt2IG2vI/AAAAAAAATY8/-urSaH9dwaoLOUJq74LACGUDZVqEh-RCwCLcB/s320/LETTING%2BGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A little inspiration . . .&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>KINESTHETIC APPROACH</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When moving out for an extended or indefinite period of time, my recommendation&nbsp;is to touch EVERYTHING. It takes a bit longer, but this tactic helps in three big ways. First, you don't forget to take anything that you love. Second, you don't leave a mess for that sweet educator rollin' in behind you (we've all been here . . . sigh . . . again, it's okay to use the trash can). Finally, when you touch everything, you're able to dish out the goods amongst your best pals (more on that in a minute). &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxRolwg3Mkg/V22DnJ57njI/AAAAAAAATXg/P0Y68IKGxSE47WA8DlQ3_78FBktfpXuJQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxRolwg3Mkg/V22DnJ57njI/AAAAAAAATXg/P0Y68IKGxSE47WA8DlQ3_78FBktfpXuJQCLcB/s400/IMG_0167.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here's the start of the process ((GULP)).<br />Cleaning always is SO messy!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">One word of caution here. If at all possible, touch each item only ONE TIME. I made the mistake of going back into a cabinet for a second look-see. <b>FOR THE LOVE OF PETE . . . DO NOT DO THIS TO YOURSELF!</b>&nbsp;Not only did I double my gosh dang time in this particular area, but I also ended up getting in a mental struggle over what should come with me (((eye roll))). &nbsp;In the end, I ended up putting back most of the stuff I pulled out. Your first&nbsp;instinct&nbsp;is typically right on target. Lesson learned. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>SPREAD THE LOVE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When deciding what to keep, what to toss, and what to leave, think about all of those grand friends of yours who are still in the trenches. Don't just focus on the district you are in now . . . this is a great time to reflect on all of those stellar teacher friends that have crossed your path over the years. I'm not saying to strip your room (obviously some stuff belongs to the school). However, I am saying that it's a good idea to will those items that you used successfully. With this said, I left a TON for the gal coming in behind me. However, I also shared some of my favorite resources with my old co-workers from a previous district. I knew that these items would be used immediately. I also liked the idea of keeping some of my best treasures in the "family," so to speak.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>BAGGIES, BOXES, AND ENDLESS CONTAINERS . . . OH MY</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When I began deciding what to take with me, I just started randomly piling it on a table. It soon reached the size of a small hill and began tipping over. I won't tell you what I uttered at this point. But, word to the wise here . . . don't do this to yourself. &nbsp;My advice is to organize it from the get go. This helps you not over think things and it will make your move "home" much easier. &nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I set out a series of long flat bins and slapped labels on the sides - math, reading, writing, office, presenting, and random. As I set aside items I wanted to hold on to, I placed them in the bins. When one was full, I closed the lid and it was all ready to cart home. &nbsp;Boom. &nbsp;Easy peasy. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTObh6GpAsw/V22CtzeE1dI/AAAAAAAATW8/ve_hcxhzQ60NudynZt4IaWVTKzXPwOK7wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTObh6GpAsw/V22CtzeE1dI/AAAAAAAATW8/ve_hcxhzQ60NudynZt4IaWVTKzXPwOK7wCLcB/s320/IMG_0251.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Large bins are for the main core areas.<br />Smaller bins house all of the math manips that are mine.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I also suggest further organizing goods into plastic bags. Although many of my items were already packaged in such a way, I combined and cleaned as I sorted. &nbsp;All of my double dice were tossed in a bag. &nbsp;All of my playing cards went into a bag. &nbsp;All of my . . . uh . . . you get the picture here. &nbsp;It is just a nice way to keep all of the small items together and easy to grab. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Finally, I had two boxes going for a couple of my favorite buddies (remember back to all that "family" talk above). &nbsp;Just like the bins that I would bring home, boxes made it quick and easy to sort out and deliver treats to my friends. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>CLEAN BEFORE YOU BRING</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My last tip of the day is a BIG ONE. &nbsp;I strongly suggest that you clean out a space (or two) for your classroom treasures before you tote it all home. Usually getting out of your room is a huge time crunch. It needed to happen yesterday and the deep clean is already scheduled and the educator taking your place is beggin' for the key. In addition, you are usually running so much at the end of the year that your home space may look like a bomb went off (well, it did in my house . . . sorry, Dear).&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I, personally, felt so pressured for time during this process, but I forced myself to take a time out and clean out my office before I quit. &nbsp;Not only did I make room for the <strike>crap</strike>&nbsp;amazing items that needed to find a home, but I also found items that needed to be returned to school (whoopsie . . . my bad). &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-99gDItQlfWA/V21_iZccoEI/AAAAAAAATWg/DMGw3--iu2YRzIy7VGqhz9kw1ssSJqPdACLcB/s1600/IMAG0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="67" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-99gDItQlfWA/V21_iZccoEI/AAAAAAAATWg/DMGw3--iu2YRzIy7VGqhz9kw1ssSJqPdACLcB/s400/IMAG0023.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">One last look . . . before I go.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This is also the step that will appease your&nbsp;spouse. I don't know about all you alls, but&nbsp;my man has a thing for his garage. &nbsp;It's so orderly and clean. <i>This, in turn, absolutely blows my mind as he is like a tornado in the actual house . . . but, I digress. </i>Anyway, I was able to limit the time that the items hung out in the garage because I already had a space ready to take on more goods. The process of moving part of my "classroom" in was pretty seamless and the boy's griping was kept to a minimum. #wifewin</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GKFQcQQ0ubU/V21_i0Cjl2I/AAAAAAAATWw/ZTx_iiQjYqgT4ecyQWQeEsIGj5CWRbN7QCLcB/s1600/IMAG0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GKFQcQQ0ubU/V21_i0Cjl2I/AAAAAAAATWw/ZTx_iiQjYqgT4ecyQWQeEsIGj5CWRbN7QCLcB/s320/IMAG0024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The hubby was happy to help.<br />He was extra pleased when the load was easy to pack.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Oh . . . and isn't that red chair super dreamy?</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Yep. One of my treasures that I treated myself to last year.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, there you have it. &nbsp;My suggestions for packing up your classroom for an extended leave. &nbsp;I know there are many of you out there who have way more practice at this than I do as you pack your room up yearly. &nbsp;If I missed something, feel free to write it in the comments below.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for taking the time to visit me today. &nbsp;I will be back again soon with an idea for incorporating music into reading instruction :)&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/06/tips-tricks-and-pitfalls-when-packin-up.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-8572847328716647313Sun, 19 Jun 2016 16:14:00 +00002016-06-19T11:07:33.277-07:00THE FACTORY IS BACK IN BIZ. (YES . . . SHE IS ALIVE)<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Just a quick informal post to let you know that I am still kickin' over here. &nbsp;A wave of chaos hit The Factory and definitely kept me running in oodles of different directions as of late. &nbsp;On that note, you may or may not want to relive this particular turmoil with me . . . but, here it is just the same. &nbsp;I promise to hit you with a few giggles and some overblown drama along the way. What can I say? &nbsp;Humor gets me through my days - great, good, bad, and ugly. &nbsp;And, on the flip side, those who take the time to read this just gotta walk away with something today. The best I can offer at this particular moment is&nbsp;a little entertainment&nbsp;</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(hopefully)</i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diZCZMVMbqo/V2VsBAys-gI/AAAAAAAAS-g/qot4Cwiw80k_ikca-89nOynAsOrXy7-fACLcB/s1600/DISPLACED%2BTEACHER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diZCZMVMbqo/V2VsBAys-gI/AAAAAAAAS-g/qot4Cwiw80k_ikca-89nOynAsOrXy7-fACLcB/s400/DISPLACED%2BTEACHER.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>TALE OF A DISPLACED TEACHER<i>&nbsp;</i></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Yep. I'm gonna lay it all out on a very upfront line. My uterus is broken . . . or at least on strike <i>(I told you I was going to be a tad dramatic)</i>. This is not new. Nor is it something that I like to talk about. However, it's the main reason behind all of the current changes in my life and why my blog has been so hit or miss at times. I have Stage 5 endometriosis and now am the proud owner of a "belt" with FIVE surgery notches engraved deeply in the old-@$$ leather. It has been a battle for the past 9 years and I lost this year, so to speak. I had surgery about two months ago, but it didn't go all that well. Sure, I managed to get a bit of relief, but I have too much scar tissue at this point. Therefore, my pelvic pain will be chronic. I have come to terms with this as I have lived/worked/existed with it for years. However, this year and this surgery led me to a new and somewhat sad conclusion. I am stepping out of the classroom. It was a decision I NEVER thought I would have to make . . . one I never WANTED to make. However, it has become a decision that I MUST make. ((SIGH)) &nbsp;The always sweet Leigh from the Applicious Teacher coined it for me perfectly . . . I'm a "Displaced Teacher." &nbsp;Don't feel too sorry for me (I've done my fair share of pit dwelling). I promise that I am still smiling these days. &nbsp;As Red told us, <i>"Get busy livin', or get busy dyin'." &nbsp;</i></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKJUqUcS43A/V2V3A9N-kAI/AAAAAAAAS_I/g38XgZDhR4Y2GZsfULn4WM-_NP55VKwvACLcB/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKJUqUcS43A/V2V3A9N-kAI/AAAAAAAAS_I/g38XgZDhR4Y2GZsfULn4WM-_NP55VKwvACLcB/s400/IMG_0167.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Deciding what to take and what to leave.<br />After 10 years in the classroom, this was so difficult.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Despite transitioning out of the classroom, I won't be totally out of the game. Luckily, I was offered up a new gig by my current school district. &nbsp;I am rolling into a coaching and curriculum position that I can mold to fit my health ebbs and flows. Um . . . talk about a dream come true! &nbsp;So, next year my focus will be writing curriculum (K-5) as well as a handful of other contract jobs to help support new and seasoned teachers! Although I rather loathe the thought of missing out on crews of little kiddos to call my own, this is definitely right up my alley. I <strike>think</strike>&nbsp;know&nbsp;it's something I will really LOVE in the long run! I also was able to do a little work with my previous school district (more on that later). Boy, oh boy . . . that was a rather lengthy way of telling all you alls that I will have a new position in the fall :P &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>A SERIOUS ADDICTION</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">My name is Kelley and I have an addition . . . it's golf. &nbsp;Not sure what you thought I might say here :P &nbsp;Yes, I still love my glasses of vino while I'm cookin' up a storm, but golf has reached a new level of desire for me. I poured myself into my golf game after surgery . . . as soon as I could swing a club. It's the perfect active and calming outlet (as long as you can move past those <i>$#@&amp; shots</i>). The courses are always so beautiful and peaceful. I even go out by myself now. If you don't golf, I suggest that you give it a go this summer. Hit up a range and see what happens. You may hate it . . . but, you might end up really loving it. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTxQetKzuOA/V2Vx92fpy5I/AAAAAAAAS-w/qPwr4cWGRSMUgQvf_W0XuOfOy134NeecACLcB/s1600/IMG_0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTxQetKzuOA/V2Vx92fpy5I/AAAAAAAAS-w/qPwr4cWGRSMUgQvf_W0XuOfOy134NeecACLcB/s400/IMG_0164.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zP8-6szibj0/V2VyCYQRSXI/AAAAAAAAS-4/9uNb71tRHnUjYICDuG3Ft9Gzgr3NWBaMwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zP8-6szibj0/V2VyCYQRSXI/AAAAAAAAS-4/9uNb71tRHnUjYICDuG3Ft9Gzgr3NWBaMwCLcB/s320/IMG_0193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>HEART WRENCHING NEWS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so I'm pushin' 37 and I don't have kids of my own. Therefore, my pets have become my babies - we have a dog and two cats. &nbsp;Well, one pet in particular takes the cake. Henry Dolling . . . the stray kitty I adopted two years ago is the definite front-runner in my book. &nbsp;I'm gonna go ahead and say it here (it's okay to judge just a little). I am a cat lady. If I had a bigger yard or a barn and my husband didn't put his foot down, I'd have <strike>4-5</strike> (strike that), 6-7 of these feline friends. Now that I have&nbsp;actually&nbsp;put these secret thoughts in writing, I can see the absurdity in this other lifestyle addiction I seem to covet. But, hey . . . I like what I like, dangnabbit. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With all of this said, I was hit with some killer news last weekend. &nbsp;Henry has FIV. What is this you ask? &nbsp;Oh, well, it's just Kitty HIV. Yep. You read that right. My cat has flippin' AIDS. I didn't even know that this existed. At first I thought the vet tech was pullin' a nasty punk on me as I ironically made the joke that waiting for Henry's blood test results was like <i>waiting for an AIDS test at your friendly&nbsp;neighborhood&nbsp;clinic</i>. I guess that's what I get for being somewhat crass (something I am very good at in my old age). Well, anyway, I knew it was bad when the doc wouldn't look at me when she walked in the room. (Kelley made another situation awkward&nbsp;. . .&nbsp;surprise, surprise.) &nbsp;Who knew that I actually called out what was&nbsp;indeed&nbsp;wrong with my little sweetie??!! #palmtoforehead</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upkyKbfLbAw/V2WGI2ANeuI/AAAAAAAAS_Y/CTIcS5eigiUMro1XgqApM6SSuvLFA5IfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upkyKbfLbAw/V2WGI2ANeuI/AAAAAAAAS_Y/CTIcS5eigiUMro1XgqApM6SSuvLFA5IfQCLcB/s400/IMG_0184.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Waiting for the test results at the vet.<br />The longest 30 minutes EVER!</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaH71DwXrZg/V2WHjkCArNI/AAAAAAAAS_k/9yWhCHAzAZcg9_rRxsoDHrr6s7HljOtZQCLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-06-18%2Bat%2B10.39.43%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaH71DwXrZg/V2WHjkCArNI/AAAAAAAAS_k/9yWhCHAzAZcg9_rRxsoDHrr6s7HljOtZQCLcB/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-06-18%2Bat%2B10.39.43%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Told ya he was my best buddy :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know what you're thinking, can people get this? No, it's feline only. It's just like regular AIDS as it compromises his immune system. I just have to keep my boy healthy and he could live up to five years. However, if the little fella gets sick, I could lose him tomorrow. I guess I am thankful that it's not leukemia, but this less than desirable news still brought on oodles of tears. Needless to say Henry is attached to my hip these days and the level of spoiled has reached a whole new rung :) #kittymama</span><br /><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">THE BIG SHOW</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">In the middle of all of this (moving out of my classroom, the kitty meltdown, and recovering from surgery), I was contacted by my old school district to host a 2 hour presentation on music and movement in regards to reading instruction. I jumped at the chance to return to my old haunt and share my outlandish ideas with one of my all time favorite crews. This went down on Thursday afternoon and it was tons of fun. My old super walked in and said he could tell I was back on campus . . . tee-he-he . . . I had the educational tunes and 80s re-mixes blaring (before, after, and during). &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5FBIQdoFyoU/V2XukmS3xLI/AAAAAAAATAM/XMCcjie0_TMhhrCBgJFotE0o9xwtclBewCLcB/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5FBIQdoFyoU/V2XukmS3xLI/AAAAAAAATAM/XMCcjie0_TMhhrCBgJFotE0o9xwtclBewCLcB/s320/IMG_0211.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3RrVs2xpko/V2XumXSGltI/AAAAAAAATAU/pfe-wWQjCq0E5dTgZygWlSsnPwft885QACLcB/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3RrVs2xpko/V2XumXSGltI/AAAAAAAATAU/pfe-wWQjCq0E5dTgZygWlSsnPwft885QACLcB/s400/IMG_0214.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ju9CQ3I0Uug/V2XumhDUBbI/AAAAAAAATAc/so7qRvWzTqU3grBPFMqKZO26iTNany2IwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ju9CQ3I0Uug/V2XumhDUBbI/AAAAAAAATAc/so7qRvWzTqU3grBPFMqKZO26iTNany2IwCLcB/s320/IMG_0215.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I poured hours into my session (it actually proved to be a glorious distraction) and am working on trying to get it into a free webinar for all you alls. We shall see if I am tech savvy enough to actually pull such a thing off :) Here's hoping SPMS can show me the way!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rrQYGPd0Rps/V2XqJCeFBSI/AAAAAAAAS_0/5TzxjdR5J1gkLhwdg_VwVrSS2yJ8f4mkACLcB/s1600/IMG_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rrQYGPd0Rps/V2XqJCeFBSI/AAAAAAAAS_0/5TzxjdR5J1gkLhwdg_VwVrSS2yJ8f4mkACLcB/s320/IMG_0177.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Powered by endless cups of black coffee.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>I'M GETTING A FACELIFT</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It's official. &nbsp;I'm OUTDATED. &nbsp;I came to this humbling realization a few months ago. Well, I'm doing something about it. My BLOG is getting a facelift. &nbsp;I had that moment back in the spring when I visited my page and gasped a bit. &nbsp;I have been so preoccupied with everything these days that I didn't notice that moment that I became quiet passe. I like to equate it to that pair of shoes or favorite shirt that you hold on to for one season too long. Do you know what I mean? &nbsp;That moment when you find it hiding in your closet and finally realize that it's time to let it go :P</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I hired a graphic designer out of the UK and found a killer WordPress gal on Etsy. It's a slow process, but we are getting there. &nbsp;Look for the change over to take place mid-July. &nbsp;I'm super excited to see how it all comes together in the end. Here's a sneak peek . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K1dXB2rg-rQ/V2a4rvh-w_I/AAAAAAAATA0/TFjqtk6jJ5MqgAA1Q33K7AHAIzmU4Wn6ACLcB/s1600/b0a90dd9-8ce8-4fbc-bfc1-e6009b76b642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K1dXB2rg-rQ/V2a4rvh-w_I/AAAAAAAATA0/TFjqtk6jJ5MqgAA1Q33K7AHAIzmU4Wn6ACLcB/s400/b0a90dd9-8ce8-4fbc-bfc1-e6009b76b642.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MGOHUj6Y_LU/V2a4rgviSNI/AAAAAAAATAs/l9hhS8AFQ0gcys-7UVYy-PxeKPcOEt8eACLcB/s1600/c89b38f0-9308-4aab-98fb-8ccf006d18bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MGOHUj6Y_LU/V2a4rgviSNI/AAAAAAAATAs/l9hhS8AFQ0gcys-7UVYy-PxeKPcOEt8eACLcB/s400/c89b38f0-9308-4aab-98fb-8ccf006d18bd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, that's enough about me. I know it's rather a strange post . . . one that has nothing to do with sharing fun ideas or strategies. And, it feels rather narcissistic ((GULP))). However, I felt the need to get back to my roots and draft a post that screamed real life. (It's ain't always rainbows and unicorns over at The Factory.) As everything hit, I lost my voice there for a bit and had to recharge. It always helps me to sit quietly when the <i>&amp;$%# hits the fan</i> in an attempt to gain some valuable perspective . . . things could be a heck of a lot worse. I am actually feeling pretty lucky these days.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If I have learned anything about the education biz (both in and out of the classroom), it's so important to take time for you when an opportunity presents itself. Everything will be waiting for you when you're ready and/or able to check back into the game. Well, I'm finally ready now. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I will be back this week with some useful information . . . that actually pertains to the classroom. &nbsp;I have a series of posts planned that I think will be just the ticket for summer break. Big hugs, y'all. Thanks for taking the time to come back to see me. &nbsp;</span><br /><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-factory-is-back-in-biz-yes-she-is.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-7100071173008522329Sun, 24 Apr 2016 16:36:00 +00002016-04-24T10:38:40.642-07:00freebiewearable workTHE WONDERFUL WORLD OF "WEARABLE WORK"<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">So, we are rounding that final bend and "home plate" is in sight. With this said, y'all know that keeping engagement high, while still targeting those standards gets a tad trickier. &nbsp;Well, I have two little words for you . . . WEARABLE WORK. Yep. It's that simple. &nbsp;If primary kiddos can put an activity some place on their little bodies (head, arms, back, face, etc.), I promise that they will be "all in."</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bqTYj8pf0bk/VxvGAjHMhTI/AAAAAAAAS4U/Ca4ikxxpGNoSLyQ_CLUBzNKSEXsRm6hZgCLcB/s1600/WEARABLE%2BWORK%2BIDEAS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bqTYj8pf0bk/VxvGAjHMhTI/AAAAAAAAS4U/Ca4ikxxpGNoSLyQ_CLUBzNKSEXsRm6hZgCLcB/s400/WEARABLE%2BWORK%2BIDEAS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Okay, so let's be honest here. Paper hats and flip book arm bands are not new concepts. However, these simple ideas are the gateway to oodles of NEW and oh so FUN ways to get our kiddos interacting with standards. &nbsp;We just have to step out of the box a little bit when it comes to all of those grade-level concepts. It also helps if we simultaneously&nbsp;slip&nbsp;ourselves into the shoes of our babes. I said it before and I'll say it again. &nbsp;If a kid can wear it, engagement goes through the roof. Case in point . . . take a quick moment and think about all of the projects that we do that are NOT wearable. Yet, somehow our little sweeties figure out a way to "put it on."</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3P3ly8WBSUk/Vxv1cYKmcdI/AAAAAAAAS4k/np-KvGrjYOERiDTnNqlU0pAo6MUtNTs6wCLcB/s1600/KIDS%2BLOVE%2BTO%2BWEAR%2BWORK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3P3ly8WBSUk/Vxv1cYKmcdI/AAAAAAAAS4k/np-KvGrjYOERiDTnNqlU0pAo6MUtNTs6wCLcB/s400/KIDS%2BLOVE%2BTO%2BWEAR%2BWORK.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here are a few ideas for you today . . . most are very little prep and can be used with any standard under the sun. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>PAPER BAG VESTS</u></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">So this activity is ALWAYS a hit with students. Heck, I even like making one every year and tossing it on as we walk out to the pick up line. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G_Oq0rvpgLo/VxwFucFDfdI/AAAAAAAAS40/4OuJeKAIUvsjpdD_8Qu2CD99_k-YNJwdwCLcB/s1600/Paper%2BBag%2BVests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G_Oq0rvpgLo/VxwFucFDfdI/AAAAAAAAS40/4OuJeKAIUvsjpdD_8Qu2CD99_k-YNJwdwCLcB/s400/Paper%2BBag%2BVests.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This simple idea can be used for just about any standard. &nbsp;I typically use them for short e words as I dig the connection (vEst . . . hehehe). &nbsp;However, I have used these for fact families and I see them working oh so well for vocabulary definitions and/or a story retell. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I typed up the&nbsp;directions&nbsp;to this one and made a handful of templates for you to take with you&nbsp;today. (((FIST PUMP))) Grab these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Paper-Bag-Vest-FREE-2518634" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**Please note that I typically make the vests on a day with a parent helper or during a big buddy session. &nbsp;However, my mommy cancelled on me this year and I ran with it anyway . . . SOLO (GULP). &nbsp;I was&nbsp;pleasantly&nbsp;surprised with the outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;My first graders were able to cut the bag on their own with me modeling and assisting every step of the way. &nbsp;However, we had to break up the cutting and&nbsp;actual</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;vest making into two&nbsp;sessions as it took a little longer than it normally would. &nbsp;Don't let this scare you though . . . the kids were so delighted with the idea making their own vest that I had them eating out of the palm of my hand :) &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>SENTENCE STRIP HATS</u></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Hats are one of my all time favorite types of wearable work because the possibilities are endless. You can use these in so many different ways and they NEVER get old.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bS3Ht_cbXzA/VxwHHdZDT1I/AAAAAAAAS5E/YHdY1MGVFg0ByDuORN2odvwiKEv72XP0gCLcB/s1600/Wearable%2BStandards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bS3Ht_cbXzA/VxwHHdZDT1I/AAAAAAAAS5E/YHdY1MGVFg0ByDuORN2odvwiKEv72XP0gCLcB/s320/Wearable%2BStandards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here are just a few of the hats I have used in the past. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Main Idea will never be the same now that you can slap it all over your noggin - it's one of my favorite activities all year. The kids get SO into pulling a main idea card and developing supporting details. This also can be used in conjunction with any literature piece. You simply need a space for the main idea, three supporting detail cards, and a sentence strip. &nbsp;If you want all the pieces and parts, this hat is part of my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Main-Idea-Centers-Activities-590858" target="_blank">Main Idea Packet</a>.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">100th Day hats are not new, but how about if we toss in ten frames and facts to ten? &nbsp;I ran with this one the year I taught kinder. &nbsp;They were all about it. &nbsp;See it in action, </span><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/100th-Day-of-School-Ten-Frame-Party-Hat-505080" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">HERE</a><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Pronoun Power Bands are my latest idea. Students are asked to come up with corresponding nouns for some of the top pronouns (he, she, it, they, and we). This is in the plan for an upcoming week. &nbsp;You can bet that we will take the time to cruise the room and read each other's creations. You can read more about them, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pronouns-228984" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**Before I move on, let me post a quick disclaimer as seeing a photo collage of me is somewhat&nbsp;unnerving. I do not make a habit of taking photos of myself in silly hats.&nbsp;&nbsp;Actually, I am utterly selfie challenged and I have to ask my hubs to snap shots for me (which I never live down). &nbsp;However, when I come out with new ideas or "wearable work," I want to show the piece in action and I don't have children. &nbsp;Therefore, you always tend to get my ugly mug making some sort of dippy face. Reason 4,245 as to why I need to get on the kid thing . . . if not&nbsp;solely&nbsp;for silly&nbsp;hat wearing purposes ;) &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zLtBnYCkEtQ/VxwMzAAYs_I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/Mr6BHj3lWY43jH1wWlU6BdQKUMgsU7EywCLcB/s1600/BIG%2BSILLY%2BWIGS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zLtBnYCkEtQ/VxwMzAAYs_I/AAAAAAAAS5Y/Mr6BHj3lWY43jH1wWlU6BdQKUMgsU7EywCLcB/s400/BIG%2BSILLY%2BWIGS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The hat making fun doesn't stop there in my classroom. &nbsp;Check out BIG Silly Wigs. &nbsp;This phonics based "wearable work" lets the kids rock out a particular spelling sound, while unleashing mounds of their creativity. &nbsp;In year's past, I have had kids come up with everything from pigtails and ponies to mohawks. (All complete with short i words.) &nbsp;You know it's a winner when the kiddo who NEVER dances, sings, or draws attention to himself slaps on his new hairpiece and proudly marches out to the bus :) &nbsp;You can use these wigs for all sorts of things. &nbsp;I like the short i connection, but this can be morphed to fit what you are currently serving up in class. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Speaking on word family and phonics work, the one and only Susan Jones from T.G.I.F has a great hat freebie. I know my class loved being KINGS of ING :) Check out her mini phonics pack, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-King-of-ING-a-freebie-355095" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P2zdkqqm4kQ/Vx0ElKAyMyI/AAAAAAAAS6M/f9m2gys5cGY0mipa157ctcJ0YXWmR0QWACLcB/s1600/IMG_8892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P2zdkqqm4kQ/Vx0ElKAyMyI/AAAAAAAAS6M/f9m2gys5cGY0mipa157ctcJ0YXWmR0QWACLcB/s400/IMG_8892.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">SUPER CAPES</span></u></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I have used wearable capes for a variety of different standards, but my favorite is detailed sentence writing. The kids always go above and beyond, because of the super hero angle. &nbsp;And, yes . . . I know you are thinking it . . . I let them fly around the room before we go home. &nbsp;BUT, I definitely make them read each other's sentences :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLWdQ2dw8yw/VxwUfv_1-rI/AAAAAAAAS5o/2g3DnOtYD58fV_XwstomNDsIsNMobUakgCLcB/s1600/SUPER%2BSENTENCE%2BCAPES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLWdQ2dw8yw/VxwUfv_1-rI/AAAAAAAAS5o/2g3DnOtYD58fV_XwstomNDsIsNMobUakgCLcB/s400/SUPER%2BSENTENCE%2BCAPES.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">To roll with this one, all you need is a large piece of construction paper, markers, and lined sentence writing templates. I like to have kiddos choose noun and verb cards so that all of the capes are different, but you could post a whole class topic on the board or provide a menu of subjects and predicates. If you follow me, you know I encourage silly sentences with stellar details as they buy-in even more. However, you could have your students roll with more straightforward sentences that encompass a non-fiction topic or vocabulary words that you happen to be targeting. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you want all the templates and word cards that are specific to my super sentence capes, they are part of my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sentence-Writing-Lessons-Activities-More-1443952" target="_blank">Super Sentence Writing Packet</a>. (This collection is filled with out of the box ideas that work to foster a love of writing in our primary kiddos.)&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it. &nbsp;A little post dedicated to "wearable work." &nbsp;I am sure I will be back for a second installment down the road as I am a HUGE proponent of slappin' standards on kids bodies. &nbsp;If you have any questions or want to share an idea you roll with in your classroom, post a comment below. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for taking the time to visit me today. &nbsp;I will be back with some end of the year fun in the near future. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-wonderful-world-of-wearable-work.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-7982283169824484410Fri, 01 Apr 2016 22:51:00 +00002016-04-06T06:55:49.653-07:00POSITIVE IDEAS TO HELP YOUR CAMPUS SURVIVE TESTING WEEK<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I am hosting a TBT post on a Friday . . . I guess you can say I am into breaking all of the rules these days. However, this one seemed pretty dang fitting right about NOW, so I am pressin' on with my plan :)*************</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A handful of you have already started, so I am behind the eight ball a bit for some folks. However, with my campus beginning state testing in a few short weeks, I figured I would toss some ideas out just the same. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Let me back up and give you the back story on my ideas surrounding testing. (Heaven knows I love to frontload just about everything.) &nbsp;It only took one year of being a "testing" teacher to grasp the stress involved with the whole process. I didn't sleep for a week and I will NEVER forget the moment when one of my little 2nd grader babes looked up at me with his lower lip quivering and tears welling in his eyes -- "I can't read this, Miss B." I squeezed his hand with as much love as I had in me, but I had to reply, "I'm sorry sweetie, I can't help you. Just do your best." &nbsp;This dang near killed me. &nbsp;Needless to say, this event was burned into my brain. &nbsp;That next year admin dropped me down to first grade. Yes, I was cheering to be away from the heat of testing. However, I couldn't quite get that moment from the year before out of my mind. &nbsp;So, when testing rolled around for the rest of the campus, I knew that I wanted to do everything I could to boost student and teacher moral during this tough time. That's when Adopt-A-Class and a few other ideas were born.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GNZ9_1vyLCM/VwJnm_DHJnI/AAAAAAAAS1g/Z7KB8i8oZEkmWHGU633xXgKxdUhAvJccA/s1600/Testing%2BIdeas%2BPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GNZ9_1vyLCM/VwJnm_DHJnI/AAAAAAAAS1g/Z7KB8i8oZEkmWHGU633xXgKxdUhAvJccA/s400/Testing%2BIdeas%2BPicture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>ADOPT-A-CLASS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Adopt-A-Class is a fun project where all of the non-testing classrooms adopt a testing class. &nbsp;Prior to testing and throughout the week, "parent" or non-testing classes go out of their way to brighten a class full of test takers :) &nbsp;It doesn't have to be anything major . . . friendly letters delivered the day before the test, a surprise snack after the first day of testing, motivational classroom murals and posters made by the little kids on campus . . . anything to show these students that they are supported. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A campus generally needs about a week to get this one going. &nbsp;However, I have put it together in less than 5 days. &nbsp;You just need a teacher or small group of teachers who are willing to step up and man the process. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this said, I have made a packet with everything ready to go (plus lots of other fun and easy ideas for surviving testing). &nbsp;I broke all the rules and made a LARGE freebie a few years back and it just&nbsp;received&nbsp;a much needed facelift. In my heart of hearts, I just couldn't charge for&nbsp;this then . . . and I can't charge for it now. Moral boostin' and feel-good ideas and activities should be free in my book. Also, just for the record, I do want to state that I posted this packet in it's original form in 2012 prior to the 10 page freebie rule - just sayin' :) (Can you tell I don't like to break rules??!!)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you haven't started testing yet, you're all set with this one. &nbsp;If you have, download it for next year! &nbsp;What do you have to loose . . . it's free??!! &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/State-Testing-Adopt-A-Class-Project-Ideas-229443" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T_igsZ3M8hY/VTP71PEJFGI/AAAAAAAAQ-8/UlzrEKsbtAY/s1600/Slide01.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">TESTING TUNE</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This fun little tune from Ron Brown's Intelli-Tunes is all about doing your best on the test. &nbsp;If you are running with Adopt-A-Class, and you have time, you can get you babes to learn this one and perform it for your testing class. &nbsp;If you aren't, share it with your music teacher or admins. &nbsp;They can play it for the testing grades :) &nbsp;The best part about this one . . . it's FREE too :) &nbsp;Click the image&nbsp;below and find the&nbsp;freebie&nbsp;called&nbsp;<i>Best On the Test</i>. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/free-downloads-and-activities.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVDaKWTfUig/VTP94k6OzGI/AAAAAAAAQ_I/44piaDZtb1A/s1600/intellitunes2.png" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>UNDERCOVER MISSION</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The night before the first day of testing hits, I like to sneak out to school and decorate. I make a bunch of butcher paper signs to hang in the hallways. I also like to decorate the sidewalks with inspirational messages in chalk. Finally, I have a collection of funny/motivational posters to hang on all of doors of those classrooms that will be testing (these are in the free packet). &nbsp;I know that I won't be able to get up early enough to pull all of this off in the AM, so I just make an extra little trip. &nbsp;All I will have to do in the morning is hang the balloons at the school&nbsp;entrances.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Biga87u62A/Vv76l27veVI/AAAAAAAAS08/mIE_JJUtWfk0O3yn685Ug2-8PuTcsoxMg/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-01%2Bat%2B3.43.37%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Biga87u62A/Vv76l27veVI/AAAAAAAAS08/mIE_JJUtWfk0O3yn685Ug2-8PuTcsoxMg/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-04-01%2Bat%2B3.43.37%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>WALK OF WINNERS - CHEER LINE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This one is my favorite. The walk of winners is a cheer line that takes place on the first morning of testing -- it kicks off the day. &nbsp;For this stunt, the non-testing students line a hallway and all of the testing kiddos walk through it while you blast fun upbeat music. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">All of the notes you need to get this one going are in the freebie packet from above. &nbsp;It outlines the process and contains an editable note template (as well as some sample notes). &nbsp;I think I made this pretty easy on ya. &nbsp;You just need access to a powerful radio or speaker system, some fun tunes loaded on your iPod or iPhone, and teachers who are willing to mess with their morning schedules for about 15 minutes. &nbsp;This event ALWAYS makes me cry (I have to wear my dark sunglasses) and this year will not be any different. &nbsp;It's a moment that kids (testing and non-testing) will NEVER forget. &nbsp;</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QSbHkkS28VA/VTQA2hvzAZI/AAAAAAAAQ_c/rIdZ9-EZzMc/s1600/IMG_3802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QSbHkkS28VA/VTQA2hvzAZI/AAAAAAAAQ_c/rIdZ9-EZzMc/s1600/IMG_3802.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">You see all of your old students roll through with big old grins on their faces.<br />It just seems to lighten the mood for everyone - students and teachers.<br />I am crying just writing about this experience.<br />I am in big trouble tomorrow! #passthetissues</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zhCAxEUn94/VTQA2ou9deI/AAAAAAAAQ_Y/oULe-xNC3TA/s1600/IMG_3803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zhCAxEUn94/VTQA2ou9deI/AAAAAAAAQ_Y/oULe-xNC3TA/s1600/IMG_3803.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I will be cheering my heart out for these sweeties tomorrow.<br />They are big 4th graders now.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Yes, I'm still crying a little.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtSsZBGcDJ8/VTQA4JnHfhI/AAAAAAAAQ_w/a6QGRRJdjV4/s1600/IMG_3806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QtSsZBGcDJ8/VTQA4JnHfhI/AAAAAAAAQ_w/a6QGRRJdjV4/s1600/IMG_3806.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Hootin' and hollerin' with grins from ear to ear :)<br />The love and support oozes from our cheer line.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, there you have it . . . just a few ideas to help your school survive a run of testing. &nbsp;My FREEBIE packet contains oodles of other ideas to toss into the mix -- breakfast of champions, ready-made badges, smart snack ideas, etc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/State-Testing-Adopt-A-Class-Project-Ideas-229443" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to check it out. &nbsp;My goal is to ease kids into the testing process and make them believe that they are control of the test. &nbsp;Sure, all of our kids are not going to ace the big bad test. &nbsp;AND . . . let's be honest . . . these stunts aren't really going to change many scores (if any). However, if we can keep lower lips from quivering, ward off&nbsp;unnecessary&nbsp;tears, and put a few smiles on some faces, I have done&nbsp;my job with this collection :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4yFjyBEb64/VTQWKg7YuUI/AAAAAAAARAE/3SRLHTnFu-k/s1600/Ego%2BBooster_Preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g4yFjyBEb64/VTQWKg7YuUI/AAAAAAAARAE/3SRLHTnFu-k/s1600/Ego%2BBooster_Preview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for visiting me today! &nbsp;I hope this next week is stellar. &nbsp;I will see you in the near future :) &nbsp;Big hugs!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/04/positive-ideas-to-help-your-campus.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-7728639607759121654Mon, 14 Mar 2016 02:01:00 +00002016-03-15T07:03:56.930-07:00A LITTLE BIT OF THIS AND A LITTLE BIT OF THAT<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Hey gang, I have a bit of a potpourri post today. &nbsp;(That's just a nice way of saying that I am all over the place at the moment!) Taking this all into account, I figured that I'd just toss this one up as a list of sorts today. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>ONE - SCKC CONFERENCE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Last weekend I spent time presenting at the SCKC 2016. The SoCal Kinder Conference is always a great time. The crowd is awesome and I love hanging with my bloggy friends. On a side note, if you were in my pre-conference math games session, I emailed out the slides, the activities promised, and a few other goodies. A handful of emails bounced back to me. If you're reading this and you didn't get an email, shoot me a quick note and I'll hook you up within 24 hours (kelleydolling@gmail.com). Some of the emails were difficult to read and I may have incorrectly guessed on a letter/digit. #eyeproblems</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRaCRtKHfVc/Vua7i1DPZjI/AAAAAAAASzg/nffOavHqlms5baW6Nif4kXkU7b9mtYUAA/s1600/12032634_10153294503155706_4435293377436122847_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRaCRtKHfVc/Vua7i1DPZjI/AAAAAAAASzg/nffOavHqlms5baW6Nif4kXkU7b9mtYUAA/s400/12032634_10153294503155706_4435293377436122847_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Love me some SoCal gals. &nbsp;See you next year my friends! &nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>TWO - ONLY TIME WILL TELL</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We just finished up our time unit. &nbsp;Don't tell, but when I heard that we were adopting a new math program next year, I went a bit rogue and marched off the curriculum and toward the clocks. The kids ate it up and my little firsties ALL know time to the 5-minute now. I am running back to the curriculum before I get too caught up in my own thing and get busted, but this was a much needed and fun standards-based break :) &nbsp;Check out just a few of the activities we found ourselves mixed up in . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlgUfQDA9O8/VuYFGNTkPDI/AAAAAAAASx8/aZ5kSehKs7MCcnhIMkskHM2bz31wI0QVw/s1600/LICORICE%2BCLOCKS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlgUfQDA9O8/VuYFGNTkPDI/AAAAAAAASx8/aZ5kSehKs7MCcnhIMkskHM2bz31wI0QVw/s400/LICORICE%2BCLOCKS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Licorice clocks are a great way to hook those kids into tellin' time!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI8eFbwhSsI/VuYFUFkTMmI/AAAAAAAASyA/EhtpSItoVeEeR9zNRRVn5iplUHj0ql13g/s1600/IMG_9323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI8eFbwhSsI/VuYFUFkTMmI/AAAAAAAASyA/EhtpSItoVeEeR9zNRRVn5iplUHj0ql13g/s400/IMG_9323.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Can't use candy . . . roll with pretzel rods instead :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3YbXZWnqME/VuYFk-58kjI/AAAAAAAASyI/WDgxayWpcn8ItBlcxSIzcOC6eo9oDc80A/s1600/IMG_9182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3YbXZWnqME/VuYFk-58kjI/AAAAAAAASyI/WDgxayWpcn8ItBlcxSIzcOC6eo9oDc80A/s320/IMG_9182.jpg" width="307" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We did a little graphing game to keep the engagement high!<br />Students roll the dice and match it to the correct clock.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMfZWOF8EjQ/VuYFUQy0hEI/AAAAAAAASyE/9JB2_JGHUL8yEBEx89rL3VY3QC9HIPjJg/s1600/IMG_9201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMfZWOF8EjQ/VuYFUQy0hEI/AAAAAAAASyE/9JB2_JGHUL8yEBEx89rL3VY3QC9HIPjJg/s400/IMG_9201.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Amy Lemons' flip book was a huge hit.<br />Check it out in her awesome time packet &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Its-About-Time-Telling-time-activities-199678" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>THREE - FEATURED FUN</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I was honored to receive an email from Scholastic asking to feature one of my crafts in their recent Teacher Magazine issue. They shouted out one of my very first crafts (Flying Fact Families) and offered it up as a fun spring freebie . . . let's just say it quickly received&nbsp;a much needed face lift before it went into their mag :) Don't want to use it for fact families? No problem . . . roll with same sum, word families, pronouns, or just about any other concept under the sun :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGoJjVJ_FIk/VuYL2DABDII/AAAAAAAASyc/g7T_x5FK6UkC6iWkXnWdTF3AvHSNXpVKw/s1600/IMG_9392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGoJjVJ_FIk/VuYL2DABDII/AAAAAAAASyc/g7T_x5FK6UkC6iWkXnWdTF3AvHSNXpVKw/s320/IMG_9392.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlrqJTOfr88/VuYL2Bcau6I/AAAAAAAASyg/qa4x06hTHFoPzlumTXbwJjKWEGmeEDmXw/s1600/IMG_9393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlrqJTOfr88/VuYL2Bcau6I/AAAAAAAASyg/qa4x06hTHFoPzlumTXbwJjKWEGmeEDmXw/s320/IMG_9393.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>FOUR - OPERATION EGO BOOST</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I will chat more about this whole idea in an upcoming post. However, I wanted to toss it out a bit earlier this year as this idea requires a bit of planning. With all that fun testing looming, why not leverage it to pump up our kids? I created a packet years ago called Operation Ego Boost and it also received a little face lift this past spring. It highlights oodles of ideas to help pump our kids up before, during, and after all those high-stakes tests. Oh, I should mention that this pack breaks all the TPT size rules for freebies. What can I say? I just couldn't charge for a feel good packet like this . . . it seemed tacky. So, this 30+ page collection is FREE in my shop.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/State-Testing-Adopt-A-Class-Project-Ideas-229443" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check out this packet in full detail. It has everything from editable signage and adopt a class activities to breakfast name changes, treat tags, and cheer line instructions. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RPBvtQMLRA/VuYPc_YunwI/AAAAAAAASyw/ZBAFQGnlw_k4LPxIwr0P2MKoqjuBprWDg/s1600/Ego%2BBooster_Preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RPBvtQMLRA/VuYPc_YunwI/AAAAAAAASyw/ZBAFQGnlw_k4LPxIwr0P2MKoqjuBprWDg/s400/Ego%2BBooster_Preview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-szHyAFkNZ0M/VuYPKYjYI4I/AAAAAAAASys/YKUKPf_Tj18fPevyk8VamzKI3Bq-JoKZA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-03-13%2Bat%2B6.07.54%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-szHyAFkNZ0M/VuYPKYjYI4I/AAAAAAAASys/YKUKPf_Tj18fPevyk8VamzKI3Bq-JoKZA/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-03-13%2Bat%2B6.07.54%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I didn't get too many quality pictures from last year's festivities. <br />Take a second and check out the packet. It's worth a little look-see :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">FIVE - A PERSONAL NOTE</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I don't really like chatting about my health issues, but my cruddy post record and flaky response to emails these days deserves a little&nbsp;clarification. Here goes nothin' . . . some of you know that I was diagnosed with stage 5 endometriosis in&nbsp;2009. <i>This disease is actually&nbsp;how I got into blogging - I was out on my second surgery leave. </i>Well, every few years it surges back and takes me out. I have the best doctor a girl could ask for (at Stanford no less) and he takes such good care of me. However, to help "fix" the problem at least for a year or two, I get to have surgery. &nbsp;I am slated for my fourth date with the knife in a little over a month.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">So, if I fail to promptly respond to an email, forget to send you a revision on something, or leave the blog/social media silent for weeks on end, it's not that I hate you or that I am giving up on The Factory. It's just that I have to pick teaching and just surviving at the moment. This has all made me rather forgetful right now too . . . please just email me again if I miss something. You're not a bother and reminders are good for me :)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">As a added bonus, my district can't find me a quality long term sub and I am working a brand new school this year. GULP :( I am trying like hell to hold on as long as possible as I love my students and just can't abandon them yet. Call me stubborn, but this isn't the first time this mama bear worked with ungodly pelvic pain :)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright . . . so there you have it . . . a deeply personal number five. Now that I have finished typing, I can feel my face contorting and my blood pressure just shot up quite a bit. &nbsp;BLARG!!!! &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Please know that I am not trying to complain or make you feel sorry for me . . . this is why I tend to keep quiet about it. I just felt the need to be honest as to why I have suddenly vanished.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With all this dirty laundry now aired, please know that I will hopefully be back in action in early summer. The blog and product creation have simply taken a back burner until I get cleaned out. Thank you for understanding and sitting through all that jazz.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On a final note, Endo indeed sucks @$$ and it makes me cry from time to time, but everything these days has been put into perspective. I know there are quite a few other secret battles that many of you are be fighting out there. My heart goes out to you as it's no easy feat to have "issues" when you are attempting to manage a classroom and life in general. Big hugs to you and your families . . . stay strong my friends. &nbsp;</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With that, I am FINALLY O-U-T and off to finish up report card&nbsp;comments :P Thanks for sticking with me. I will be back during my Spring Break with something useful. Our little week vacay is so close . . . I can smell it :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/03/a-little-bit-of-this-and-little-bit-of.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-3835948032244456859Sun, 21 Feb 2016 19:19:00 +00002016-03-20T12:56:49.345-07:00jokesspringwritingADD SOME SILLY TO YOUR WRITING BLOCK <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">As I sat down to finalize the rest of the themes for the year, I realized that April Fools Day falls during our Spring Break (((insert super sad face))). &nbsp;Over the years I have come to L-O-V-E this "holiday" in the classroom. &nbsp;You must think I am nuts after reading that line. &nbsp;Let me explain. &nbsp;In the beginning, April 1st simply signified a day filled with countless jokes that lacked a punchline and/or lame tricks that would earn the best phony giggle I could muster :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Well, after a few years I decided to leverage the power of all this "SILLY" and incorporate it into our writing block. Since making this shift, my joke angle works like a charm every year and keeps the kids beggin' for more writing time. With all this said, I just couldn't miss out on this week of jokes and other shenanigans. SO, I am pluggin' this mighty theme into the mix in early March. I see this aligning oh so well with all of the Dr. Seuss fun :) &nbsp;Now, if you are lucky enough to have already had your Spring Break . . . hit 'em with this during April Fools. &nbsp;It's classic. &nbsp;Or, I see this theme would also work well during the dog days of the year -- anytime during that long stretch from the final vacation window until the last day together. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv3aCUWjnKg/VskQ0-10KRI/AAAAAAAASvA/qNub7T8sDIM/s1600/ADD%2BSOME%2BSILLY_TEACHER%2BIDEA%2BFACTORY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv3aCUWjnKg/VskQ0-10KRI/AAAAAAAASvA/qNub7T8sDIM/s400/ADD%2BSOME%2BSILLY_TEACHER%2BIDEA%2BFACTORY.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that note, here are a few easy ideas to help you and your babes embrace the "silly" this spring. Leverage it for all the WRITING AND READING work it's worth, folks!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>KNOCK KNOCK JOKES</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">These are the easiest jokes for kids to deliver and they NEVER seem to get old for our kiddies. &nbsp;With this said, stock a center with knock knock jokes - you can snag countless ditties via a simple Google search. &nbsp;Your students will be reading and recording for days. &nbsp;You can even have them pick their favorite joke to "house" in a cute little knock knock display . . . did ya catch the sly pun I slid in there on ya??&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QNYseD5M1YE/VsnnDwsNq2I/AAAAAAAASvQ/hBFsYvdtCZU/s1600/KNOCK%2BKNOCK%2BJOKES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QNYseD5M1YE/VsnnDwsNq2I/AAAAAAAASvQ/hBFsYvdtCZU/s400/KNOCK%2BKNOCK%2BJOKES.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this out on the table, why stop here? &nbsp;You can even have your students draft their own Knock Knock jokes. &nbsp;Most of them won't really make all that much sense or will be a rip off of another old version. However, this station is worth its weight in gold as your students will write and write . . . and write some more. I suggest that you host a quick brainstorm session to get the juices flowing and some subject matter out on the table. Then, provide a simple little template and model the process. &nbsp;Finally, let 'em fly. &nbsp;I guarantee that the giggles that erupt from this station will be absolutely contagious.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>A LITTLE STAND UP</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">As a little home to school connection, I have the kids turn in a joke that they research with their parents at home. &nbsp;My only rule is that they must be school appropriate -- yes I put this in the note home (no blood/guts or toilet humor PLEASE). &nbsp;A few days later, we practice our jokes and host a little Comedy Stand Up Session. Oh, and to add a little extra spice, we invite the neighbor Kinder class to watch the performance. <i>(NOTE: Younger students always seem to be a better audience choice as they laugh at EVERYTHING.) &nbsp;</i>Three kids are placed in the "hot seat" and each one is called to deliver their joke to the crew. I may or may not break out the&nbsp;karaoke&nbsp;microphone&nbsp;unit for this event ;) &nbsp;A few kids also add some side acts to the shindig via some crazy improv and a fully-stocked prop box . . . the photo below says it all. <i>(No, I did not ask for those teeth back after his "sesh" . . . call it a little gift for being brave.)</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqzWxjdGuLI/VsnxhxbitGI/AAAAAAAASvg/qCm80rLIO8g/s1600/Stand%2BUp%2BComedy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqzWxjdGuLI/VsnxhxbitGI/AAAAAAAASvg/qCm80rLIO8g/s400/Stand%2BUp%2BComedy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>CRAZY ANIMAL JOKES</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">These are kinda dippy, but the kids get OH SO creative when writing animal jokes. &nbsp;This one requires very little prep too! &nbsp;Fill a center table with non-fiction animal books. &nbsp;Introduce the kids to the simple animal joke template (see below) and model a few critter sillies of your own. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A _____ can __________.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A _____ can __________.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">A _____ can __________.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">But, a ______ cannot _____________!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">As you can see, the outline is simple. &nbsp;The kids come up with three true facts and one false fact in connection with an animal they select. &nbsp;Now, an "in the box" false fact will do . . . <i>But, a elephant cannot run faster than a cheetah</i>. However, I strongly urge my kids to get a little WILD and very detailed . . . <i>But, an elephant cannot swing from a long green vine while eating 100 rotten bananas. </i>These make for the BEST author's chair session and I always hang these in the window. &nbsp;You'll be dishin' out countless smiles to all who stop to take a little look-see :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZP7GHZkClY/VsnzfFRORtI/AAAAAAAASvs/ftZc-Ib4Sfo/s1600/ANIMAL%2BJOKES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZP7GHZkClY/VsnzfFRORtI/AAAAAAAASvs/ftZc-Ib4Sfo/s400/ANIMAL%2BJOKES.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>GROUCHO-STYLE&nbsp;</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Take any read the room or word hunt activity that you may be doing for the week and add a little "Groucho" flavor. &nbsp;Snag the mustache/glasses disguises at any Dollar Store (I just so happened to stumble across some that light up a few years back) and stock a center with 'em. &nbsp;You would think that this extra silliness would jack them all up. &nbsp;However, it actually produces the exact opposite. The kiddos WANT to wear the glasses, so they work to keep things in check. A little front-loading and you're golden with this one. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0_CbdWLjGo/VsoJAcxCx-I/AAAAAAAASv8/q6xwkgsn4wc/s1600/GROUCHO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0_CbdWLjGo/VsoJAcxCx-I/AAAAAAAASv8/q6xwkgsn4wc/s400/GROUCHO.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it. &nbsp;A few ideas on ways to host a joke week into your writing/reading block. &nbsp;These are all ideas that you can easily implement with your crew. &nbsp;However, if you are looking for a handy dandy collection that is ready to go, check out my No Foolin' Packet &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Joke-Mini-Unit-April-Fools-Day-1181205" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp;It has all the above and more!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Have a wonderful week my friends. &nbsp;I'll be back to see you again soon :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/02/add-some-silly-to-your-writing-block.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-2338698252387615959Mon, 15 Feb 2016 17:03:00 +00002016-02-15T09:03:14.982-08:00INTERACTIVE SCIENCE NOTEBOOK REVIEW - CARSON DELLOSA<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It's time when I get to test out a product by our good friends over at Carson-Dellosa. &nbsp;This month, they sent me a grade level specific Interactive Science Notebook guide to test and report back.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3QiEvZ-Nts/VsIEDa88IAI/AAAAAAAASuI/gaj_gqj0jZM/s1600/IMG_9141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3QiEvZ-Nts/VsIEDa88IAI/AAAAAAAASuI/gaj_gqj0jZM/s320/IMG_9141.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When the package arrived at my door and I perused those pages for the first time, I liked what I saw. &nbsp;It is broken down by science strand - life, physical, and&nbsp;earth/space. &nbsp;The book also has a generic&nbsp;reproducibles&nbsp;section that caught my&nbsp;eye&nbsp;immediately. &nbsp;This contains everything from flap books and puzzle pieces to a KWL&nbsp;chart. CD must know that this teacher loves options . . . this additional element definitely won may heart over.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gwolCpMq1d0/VsIEXdTqfEI/AAAAAAAASuU/jVO7PDHBDEA/s1600/IMG_9142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gwolCpMq1d0/VsIEXdTqfEI/AAAAAAAASuU/jVO7PDHBDEA/s400/IMG_9142.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.carsondellosa.com/products/104905__Science-Resource-Book-104905#/?book media type=f389e45b92884d48844baaf09d49e3c5" target="_blank">Interactive Science Notebook</a> guide provides a great&nbsp;introduction&nbsp;on starting, organizing,&nbsp;and managing this process in your classroom. &nbsp;In addition it contains a suggested grading rubric. &nbsp;This is such a cool element. &nbsp;Although you may not follow it to a T, it helps to have an outline to get you started.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9m-2Hgdc9i8/VsIEK842q_I/AAAAAAAASuM/soVG9MD-47k/s1600/IMG_9143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9m-2Hgdc9i8/VsIEK842q_I/AAAAAAAASuM/soVG9MD-47k/s320/IMG_9143.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The lessons and pages Carson-Dellosa has included are well thought out. &nbsp;Each lesson has an introduction, a sample page, and ideas on ways to have your students reflect on their learning. &nbsp;</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i>**I need to come clean on something. &nbsp;Before I get to much deeper into my final thoughts on this book, I must admit that I do not use interactive notebooks in my classroom and I wasn't about to start them up on a whim just to review a product. I know that you must be thinking I am crazy at this moment. I didn't have a choice on the item I was sent this go around. &nbsp;I have always pondered starting up some sort of interactive notebook in my classroom and I even have a classroom set of composition books sitting in a pile on my office floor waiting for me to pull the trigger . . . such a Dolling move. &nbsp;Alright, so now that this disclaimer out of the way, I feel much better about this post - it's all about&nbsp;transparency&nbsp;over here at THE&nbsp;FACTORY. &nbsp;Despite this lack of notebook use, I still feel like I can look at this product and give valid input on its overall classroom/teacher appeal.**&nbsp;</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Science is definitely not something that you just plug into the mix at random (well, at least not in my planning process . . . it's just not how I roll). &nbsp;Instead, it has been carefully folded into my long-range plan for the year. &nbsp;With this said, I would love to have seen this book in August. &nbsp;I think it would have&nbsp;enticed&nbsp;me to fold&nbsp;these lessons into my long-range calendar and get those comp books off of my floor and into the hands of my kids. &nbsp;Looking at the content of the book now, I can count at least 12-15 pages that I would have been interested in using with my kids. &nbsp;The habitat/animal and physical science pages are particularly useful and SO many of them align with lessons that I already have in place throughout the year. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OCpZqbTXXcs/VsIERrBwl8I/AAAAAAAASuQ/vyGiP4kh7LI/s1600/IMG_9144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OCpZqbTXXcs/VsIERrBwl8I/AAAAAAAASuQ/vyGiP4kh7LI/s320/IMG_9144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">So, in a nutshell, I feel comfortable stating that this is a good product and worth a little look-see. &nbsp;If you currently use Interactive Notebooks with your kids, various lessons within this book could easily slip in and&nbsp;supplement&nbsp;whatever you have cookin'. &nbsp;If you don't use Interactive Notebooks for science at this time, but have thought about starting them up, take a look at this book for next year. &nbsp;It may be what you need to get the process rollin' :) &nbsp;To check out this resource a little closer, <a href="http://www.carsondellosa.com/products/104905__Science-Resource-Book-104905#/?book media type=f389e45b92884d48844baaf09d49e3c5" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for taking the time to visit me. &nbsp;I will be back again very soon with something timely and fun for your kids . . . it's in the works as I type :)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>*Review Disclaimer: I participate in the Brand Ambassador Program for Carson-Dellosa and have received this product for free to review.</i> &nbsp;</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/02/interactive-science-notebook-review.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-8490900913347710988Sun, 07 Feb 2016 20:55:00 +00002016-02-07T12:55:40.302-08:00freebiemath gamevalentine's dayIT'S VALENTINE'S WEEK -- MATH IDEAS<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Valentine's Day is hands down my FAVORITE day in the classroom. &nbsp;The little guys are able to decode most of their cards at this point and the look of pure joy that takes over their faces after reading each note absolutely melts my heart. &nbsp;</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this said, let's just say that I milk this week for ALL that it's worth. Sure, the kids love it, but it's for me too. Over the years, I have come up with a handful of fun ideas/activities that you might be interested in checking out.&nbsp;</span><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>QUEEN OF HEARTS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This higher-level thinking greater than/less than game always my kids giggling and working hard for the whole math rotation. H</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">ere's the quick rundown . . . Students draw cards and build the largest number possible (tens or hundreds versions included). The kicker here is that the kids get throw one card away every hand. However, the decision to "keep" or "toss it down the rabbit hole" must be made when the card is drawn. &nbsp;And, for a little more added fun, if a student draws the Queen of Hearts, he/she automatically wins the hand.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The Queen of Hearts is sure to steal your students' hearts during math center rotations! The best part . . . it's FREE . . . snag it <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Valentines-Day-Math-Game-533148" target="_blank">HERE</a> :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXi2LnoHO6Q/Vrdh-Rr6o3I/AAAAAAAAStU/FReGWizFKSw/s1600/QUEEN%2BOF%2BHEARTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXi2LnoHO6Q/Vrdh-Rr6o3I/AAAAAAAAStU/FReGWizFKSw/s400/QUEEN%2BOF%2BHEARTS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>COLLECTING HEARTS</b></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We played this one on Friday and the kids were all about it. &nbsp;I usually play it with convo hearts or Valentine's Day M&amp;Ms, but if you can't do candy at your school, use paper hearts, a healthy treat (raisins or cereal), or just pull out your colored math chips/disks.</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This can be played one of two ways - counting on from any number OR skip counting by 10s. &nbsp;The best part is, you can have half your class playing one way, while the remainder plays the other version . . . they don't even know. &nbsp;</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here's how to play . . . each kid gets a spinner (you can use dice or cards if you please), a hundreds chart, a recording sheet, and a treat of some sort to mark his/her chart. For sake of keeping thins clear, I am going to explain this in spinner terms.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Kids spin the spinner to create a two-digit number. &nbsp;He/she marks this number on their hundreds chart with the little treat. Then, he/she completes the counting task. &nbsp;Counting on from this number by ones, or counting on this number by tens. &nbsp;I typically have them use four hearts or M&amp;Ms to count on with on their chart (enough to get the counting sequence going in their noggins, but not too many to make it tedious.) &nbsp;This work is then recorded on their activity sheet and the process is restarted. &nbsp;There is just something about this game . . . the kids always love it. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_HV3IH24Zg/VreuRNTN4BI/AAAAAAAAStw/OOZJKbJG8HI/s1600/COLLECTING%2BHEARTS%2BGAME.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_HV3IH24Zg/VreuRNTN4BI/AAAAAAAAStw/OOZJKbJG8HI/s400/COLLECTING%2BHEARTS%2BGAME.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**Food for thought here . . . this could ask be doctored to work on multiples of number and/or other skip counting tasks.**</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This game can easily be created in your classroom, or you can snag a ready to go version <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Centers-February-Common-Core-1st-Grade-529223" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp;</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>MY SWEET STORY</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Before you jet, I do have one other fun freebie that you might be interested in trying. &nbsp;If you follow me, you may or may not have seen my <b>Sweet Story Holiday Freebie</b> that ties in with Christmas. &nbsp;Well, it was so popular that I reworked it with a Valentine's Day theme a few years back. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This adjective game is a Mad Lib with a twist. &nbsp;Kids drop conversation hearts onto an adjective mat (sweet and wild versions included). The kids then write the words they "land on" in the blank lines on the story template. &nbsp;These create the silliest little stories . . . I guarantee they will read 'em to as many friends as they can! #bigclassroomwin Snag this packet <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Sweet-Story-Valentine-Flavored-Adjective-Freebie-549680" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OD96KCwSjZU/VresTO25MiI/AAAAAAAAStk/qyXqK3mzNGs/s1600/MY%2BSWEET%2BSTORY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OD96KCwSjZU/VresTO25MiI/AAAAAAAAStk/qyXqK3mzNGs/s400/MY%2BSWEET%2BSTORY.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i>**DISCLAIMER - This packet needs a little update as I hate the font and I can do way better in the design department. &nbsp;However, time just got away from me this year (my life story). The content is there . . . I PROMISE!!! And, next year you will be able to pick up a pretty update.**</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, I am out of here. &nbsp;Thanks so much for visiting me today. &nbsp;Hopefully, you found a little something you can use during this next run with your crew. Happy Heart Week to you!</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/02/its-valentines-week-math-ideas.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-409707852443221347Sun, 24 Jan 2016 16:18:00 +00002016-01-27T18:05:43.565-08:00freebiemath gamewhole classBREAK UP YOUR MATH BLOCK - WHOLE CLASS GAMES<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Over the years, my math block has grown considerably. &nbsp;While I think this is a totally valid and necessary maneuver, it has made for a gigantic math stretch. This change, combined with our new-ish Common Core math program, is not all that conducive to long-term learning (IMO). Let's be honest here . . . my particular curriculum's lecture-style format and pixellated black and white graphics doesn't give kids the opportunity to really "experience" math. &nbsp;And, it makes the math block feel like it's twice as long. &nbsp;(((SIGH))) &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this said, I quickly adjusted my style after the curriculum adoption in an effort to combat this issue. I have always added various math elements and games to my daily line-up. However, I have had to get a bit crafty as of late when it comes to creating meaningful math instruction that is engaging, standards-based, and fun for kids. &nbsp;</span><br /><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now, I am not saying to toss out your curriculum. &nbsp;Admin would TOSS US out on our ears. &nbsp;However, I am saying that while we add our own spin the the "Kool-Aide" that we must drink, tossing in some fun&nbsp;<b>supplemental</b>&nbsp;activities can be just&nbsp;the ticket to breaking up our math blocks. &nbsp;I know what you are thinking, "Come on, Dolling. &nbsp;We already do this in our small group math rotations." &nbsp;I love me small groups and we do this too. &nbsp;But, wait . . . that's not my topic today. Have you thought about a <b>DAILY whole class game</b> as well? I'm talking a quick in and out activity that creates a healthy buzz in the room, while tackling a related standard. &nbsp;There is just something about a whole group ditty that generates a whole new level of excitement and learning.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVLU07tWxeQ/VqTxUy8JJrI/AAAAAAAASsA/RgB5TiUTd7o/s1600/WHOLE%2BCLASS%2BMATH%2BGAME.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KVLU07tWxeQ/VqTxUy8JJrI/AAAAAAAASsA/RgB5TiUTd7o/s640/WHOLE%2BCLASS%2BMATH%2BGAME.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that note, I can't have you listen to me preach about this topic and not give you a couple of things to try! &nbsp;Below I have outlined three kid-tested games that absolutely delighted my first grade crews. &nbsp;All of the activities are low-prep, require less than 15 minutes of your day, and generate oodles of giggles. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>COUNTING RACES</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This one came to me the other day as I was trying figure out ways to squeak in more skip counting activites. I also love me a good team game . . . nothin' gets me grinnin' like seeing kids working together. &nbsp;Needless to say, this is how COUNTING RACES came to be.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**Before I begin, this game can be used for COUNTLESS activities - counting on from any number, fact families, same sum, greater than/less than, alphabet, word families, etc. (I am going to explain this in skip counting terms, but you will get the idea and can morph it into whatever standard you wish to target.)**</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">All you need is some adding machine tape, markers, some tape, and a little frontloading. &nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Decide how many teams you want (I used groups of 3-4). However, this game can be played in pairs or in two large teams. &nbsp;Next, come up with a standards-based task and cut lengths of adding machine tape that are conducive to the objective (each team will need one strip). &nbsp;Be sure to target the teamwork aspect before you launch into the game. &nbsp;A little "working together" and good sportsmanship talk was all my crew needed to have a flawless experience with this one. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBCCjbakkX4/VqQLNLSm9oI/AAAAAAAASrg/Q7ZFijPGz38/s1600/Counting%2BRaces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xBCCjbakkX4/VqQLNLSm9oI/AAAAAAAASrg/Q7ZFijPGz38/s640/Counting%2BRaces.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Once your kiddos have been placed into teams, tape one of the strips of adding machine tape to your floor in front of each group. &nbsp;Have the kids determine an "order" and give Teammate One a marker. &nbsp;On your signal, call out a counting task (skip count by 10s, skip count backward by 5s, start counting from the number 86, etc). &nbsp;Teammate One writes the first number in the series and passes the pen. &nbsp;Teammate Two writes the next number in the series. &nbsp;Play continues until all the teams have finished the counting task! &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Have tape leftover? &nbsp;Don't waste it!!! &nbsp;Play again. &nbsp;Have your kids draw a line and give them a new counting task. &nbsp;(See the photo above . . . tens and then fives, baby!)</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This was one of the best ideas I have pulled out of my bum in a while. &nbsp;The kids beg to play and it comes out about once a week in the afternoon when I notice they need a little break. Little do they know that their perceived "break" is jam-packed with learning and team building. &nbsp;{{{{FIST PUMP}}}}</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>DOUBLE THE SNOWFLAKES</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Raise your hand if you have heard of Kim Sutton? &nbsp;She is the math mastermind behind the company Creative Mathematics. &nbsp;Her ideas are nothing short of genius and they always make for a wonderful transition into, out of, or during your math block! &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Kim's math books are absolutely wonderful . . . Drills that Thrill, Place Value with Pizzaz, and Dazzling Dominoes are just a few of my favorites. &nbsp;They offer up so many amazing supplemental opportunities that never disappoint both students and teachers. &nbsp;However, she also offers up lots of fun FREE games on her site that are so worth grabbing. &nbsp;</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Case in point . . . <a href="http://www.creativemathematics.com/cgi-script/CSDownload/forms/downloads.cfm" target="_blank">DOUBLE THE SNOWFLAKES</a>. &nbsp;This game is a new freebie on her Web site. &nbsp;It's brilliant and my babes were absolutely beside themselves yesterday as we played this one. &nbsp;You know you have a winner when you hear at least three children spout out, "Mrs. Dolling, I LOOOOOVE this game!"</span></div><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IM-qj2AyGdg/VqQV7VE_m6I/AAAAAAAASrw/U0PJF5hsf7Y/s1600/DOUBLING%2BSNOWFLAKES_KIM%2BSUTTON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IM-qj2AyGdg/VqQV7VE_m6I/AAAAAAAASrw/U0PJF5hsf7Y/s400/DOUBLING%2BSNOWFLAKES_KIM%2BSUTTON.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I chose to play this one whole class as a transition out of our daily word problem warm up. &nbsp;It proved to be just the ticket before jumping into the introduction of a new standard. &nbsp;I modeled it under the document camera and we were good to go. &nbsp;The kids enjoyed the "bumping" element the most (you know, that moment when a player gets an answer that is already covered and they boot their friend off of the board.) My darlin' cuties were such good sports and the giggles were absolutely contagious. (Love the corner photo showcasing the emotions involved with a "bump." Don't worry . . . the little one in front got her back . . . hehehehe.) &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The thing I loved most about this game is that it worked on basic fact fluency to 12 and DOUBLES! &nbsp;Yep. The kids roll the dice, add them, and then DOUBLE IT! This hits two birds with one LARGE stone when it comes to first grade. We definitely will be playing this one off and on throughout winter as it delights students and helps kiddos make connections with those&nbsp;addition&nbsp;facts. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">BUT WAIT . . . is addition too easy for you? &nbsp;This free game can be used for&nbsp;multiplication&nbsp;too. &nbsp;I told you it was worth a look-see :) <a href="http://www.creativemathematics.com/cgi-script/CSDownload/forms/downloads.cfm" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to read all about this fun freebie from Kim Sutton's Creative Mathematics. **Fill out the form . . . it's so worth it for the goods you have access too. &nbsp;I promise she won't spam you with oodles of dumb emails :)***&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>PLACE VALUE BINGO</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Santa was kind enough to bless me with a bingo set last year. &nbsp;Let's just say that "Santa" was a retired teacher in a previous life ;) &nbsp;Anyway, I finally pulled it out this year. &nbsp;When I was thinking about tossing it into the mix, I didn't want to just play bingo with my firsties (although it is a great number recognition ditty). So, I thought outside of the box and decided to pose questions about the numbers I called instead of giving them outright. &nbsp;For example, I would ask . . . "Put your finger on the O column. &nbsp;Find a number with 6 tens and 2 ones." &nbsp;Or, I would ask, "Find a number in the I row that has a 4 in the tens column and the sum of its digits is 6." In the B row, I had to break away from PV and I would ask addition questions. &nbsp;It would go a little somethin' like this, "When you add 6 and 4, this number is the sum."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVNXsdDAtcM/VqT22VdWXpI/AAAAAAAASsQ/I8FPrljrokM/s1600/Place%2BValue%2BBingo_Teacher%2BIdea%2BFactory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVNXsdDAtcM/VqT22VdWXpI/AAAAAAAASsQ/I8FPrljrokM/s400/Place%2BValue%2BBingo_Teacher%2BIdea%2BFactory.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">After calling out the question, you can easily see who "gets" what you are dishing. It's a super informal assessment for sure :) &nbsp;When we play, I give them a few minutes to process before writing it on a white board under our doc cam. This gave those kids who are still struggling with number sense the opportunity to locate the number. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Let's just say that this one was an absolute winner and they beg to play it. &nbsp;It is perfect for those LONG rainy days where they have been trapped inside for the bulk of the day. &nbsp;The best part is that you only need a bingo game and some chips to play. #easypeasy</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, there you have it. A couple fun standards-based games that work oh so well when it comes to breaking up that math block . . . especially in a whole class setting. &nbsp;Give one of these a try this week or pull out one of your beloved math games and give it a go whole group. The vibe is awesome :)&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Interested in more of math ideas? &nbsp;<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kelley-Dolling-Teacher-Idea-Factory/Category/Math?aref=wdzlet9c" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check out more out of the box ideas from little ol' me :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks for popping in for a little visit today. &nbsp;I will be back soon with a little somethin' - somethin' :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/01/break-up-your-math-block-whole-class.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-7628458036609168958Sun, 03 Jan 2016 18:22:00 +00002016-01-18T17:33:22.765-08:00interventionplanningprogress monitoringwriting WHEN GROWTH JUST ISN'T WHAT YOU EXPECT - STRATEGIES AND IDEAS<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">There is nothing like that terrifying&nbsp;moment when you come to the realization that the student growth that you have come to expect just isn't happening. Have you been here? &nbsp;I have had moments in my career when the growth wasn't present for a handful, but I haven't faced such a scary disparity as I did last year. The picture below shows writing over the years during the end of the first and start of the second trimesters. &nbsp;The obvious "problem" picture at the top was from December of last year . . . and I didn't search for the cruddiest picture to prove my point either. This was one of the better products as all of my writing assignments looked like this or even worse - GULP! Needless to say, it was absolutely evident that something had to be fixed immediately.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HDl1uGtCSWE/Vogl3wzCxoI/AAAAAAAASn0/L8b-soCeUYo/s1600/Writing%2BChanges2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HDl1uGtCSWE/Vogl3wzCxoI/AAAAAAAASn0/L8b-soCeUYo/s400/Writing%2BChanges2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When such a problem occurs it is so important to break free of the emotional side of it - questioning your favorite teaching practices and ideas or doubting your abilities as an educator is absolutely TOXIC. This will break your heart, dull your spark, and drive you mad in the process. &nbsp;Even the most experienced teacher can get down in the dumps and slip into the negative self talk. We just can't help ourselves sometimes . . . I think it's our caring side that can get the best of us from time to time. &nbsp;I'll be honest. &nbsp;I got here and dwelled in the pit for a week or two last December before realizing that I had forgotten my own rule of thumb -- </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u>You can't take it personally</u>.</b><br /><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mudwf-pTx4/Vog8d--U75I/AAAAAAAASoQ/wG4BifdlVac/s1600/Emotional%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mudwf-pTx4/Vog8d--U75I/AAAAAAAASoQ/wG4BifdlVac/s400/Emotional%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now, before I get into my "fix it" process and overall&nbsp;methods, let me quickly give you the&nbsp;backstory on this one. {I promise to make it quick . . . if you know me, you know I can be a real talker.} &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Last year I was dealt a tough hand in the class department. &nbsp;My crew was pretty darn cute, but the majority of them were well below benchmark in ALL subject areas (we're talking like 65</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">% of the kids in my class . . . HEAVEN HELP ME). They were especially struggling in the writing department. The littles just weren't growing as I had hoped and/or expected. My&nbsp;tried&nbsp;and true writing routine just wasn't cutting it (we were SO behind when comparing our work to previous years). I had to quickly figure out how to "shift the&nbsp;sails" in an effort to catch some sort of sentence drafting momentum as January is that make or break month . . . especially in first grade. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></i><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">So, how did I fix it you ask? &nbsp;Well, after breaking for the holidays last year, I was able to rid myself of the negative self chatter and look at the situation logically. The lack of growth wasn't due to my perceived "crappy ideas." This crew simply&nbsp;needed something <b><u>different</u></b>. Different is okay . &nbsp;. . you just have to make an adjustment.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wD0hfSg3A3M/Vollrn4dXaI/AAAAAAAASo4/6VwqNE4WLHM/s1600/Different%2Bis%2BOkay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wD0hfSg3A3M/Vollrn4dXaI/AAAAAAAASo4/6VwqNE4WLHM/s400/Different%2Bis%2BOkay.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When attempting to make "adjustments," I suggest sitting down in a cozy atmosphere with a notebook. Think about the true source of the classroom or academic problem and list all of the&nbsp;different&nbsp;ideas that pop into your&nbsp;head. Some will be too difficult, while others will prove to be not quite enough. However, one idea will most likely be just about right. &nbsp;Oh, and spitballing with a co-worker in a similar situation can also be a HUGE help. You know what they say about that whole <i>TWO HEADS</i> thing :)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now, when it came to tackling my own writing problem, I used two of these tactics. A few ideas were sketched out in a notebook after chatting with my 1st grade teammate. I</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;quickly realized that we didn't have a ton of extra time to devote to writing. &nbsp;Therefore, I needed a </span><u style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>QUICK</b></u><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">daily</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"> ditty that added some additional </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">MEANINGFUL</b><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"> practice. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This is when the idea of Sentence Writing Warm-Ups popped into my head (a derivative of an idea on my list). &nbsp;What is this packet about? &nbsp;Well, it is a LEVELIZED set of sentence writing pages that are low-prep, target individual needs, and can fit into a VERY small time slot. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MH1-VQeKvpA/VogmVr0DVBI/AAAAAAAASn8/9LsyfFT-iwc/s1600/Writing%2BWarm-Ups%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MH1-VQeKvpA/VogmVr0DVBI/AAAAAAAASn8/9LsyfFT-iwc/s400/Writing%2BWarm-Ups%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We began implementing these immediately - the first Monday back in the saddle after Christmas Break. (Just think . . . that's exactly one year ago tomorrow!) After a few days of direct instruction, from this day forth, the kiddos completed a LEVELIZED (yep, there is that key word again) <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sentence-Writing-Warm-Ups-January-1629339" target="_blank">SENTENCE WRITING WARM-UP</a>&nbsp;as their morning job. They had about 10 minutes to get their sheet completed before our awesome SIPPS&nbsp;assistant&nbsp;walked in and we had to jump start morning groups.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Depending on their ability level, students would just copy a decodable sentence (beginning set), add details to a basic sentence (emerging set), or use a word bank to draft their own sentence (developing set).&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><i>**Someone asked me how I implemented this new tactic after I walked away from this monster post. &nbsp;Let me back up and insert this here as I didn't even think to include it -- When I introduced this new writing idea, I went slowly and HELD their hands by explicitly teaching how these should be completed. <u>I strongly suggest doing this when you implement any new strategy to improve growth</u>. &nbsp;I <b>DID NOT</b> <b>teach this whole class </b>or give it the first thing in the morning right off the bat. That would have been a nightmare as these pages target different needs. Instead, I taught these levelized sheets in <b>small groups</b>. &nbsp;Sure, I had to give up some priceless teacher reading rotation time, but fixing the writing "slump" was more important in my eyes. It only took about half of the group time too. &nbsp;The first day, I showed them a sample and helped them come up with ideas by suggesting situations. &nbsp;I pushed quality work, handwriting, and punctuation. &nbsp;I also helped them understand the early finish component of these pages as all of the levels have one. &nbsp;They are to complete it if I haven't called time . . . it's not a choice. &nbsp;So, if I had to sum up that first day of instruction, I would say it was all about modeling, modeling, modeling. &nbsp;</i></span><br /><br /><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The second day, I let go a bit more and had them come up with the ideas with little coaxing. &nbsp;They knocked it out of the park. &nbsp;By the third day, these pages were transitioned into morning work for all of the groups. &nbsp;I posted samples of each on the big screen and let them fly. Only one or two needed a little extra support at the pages were designed to be right on level. &nbsp;Now, if my students wouldn't have been ready, I would have kept it in small groups for another day or two. &nbsp; &nbsp;</i><br /><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></i><i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I believe the above is good practice for all intervention strategies. When growth isn't happening, small group and individualized&nbsp;instruction&nbsp;is ALWAYS BETTER. One of my&nbsp;favorite quotes I have picked up over the years is . . . Go slow to go fast later.**&nbsp;</span></i><br /><i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25Os_tp8hyI/VomDWDCplrI/AAAAAAAASpI/b5shreumqc8/s1600/Go%2BSlow%2BFast%2BLater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25Os_tp8hyI/VomDWDCplrI/AAAAAAAASpI/b5shreumqc8/s400/Go%2BSlow%2BFast%2BLater.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></i><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When I started, all but 4 of my sweet kiddos started out on the ground floor (copying sentences). &nbsp;By the end of the year, <u>all but 4</u> kids were using the word bank! In 5 months, we were able to use these to help teach our kids how to draft a </span><u style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">detailed</u><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"> </span><u style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">sentence</u><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"> and finally build upon it during our writing block. Practice really does make perfect.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">When I moved to my new school, I kept creating monthly packs and decided to bring it over with me. &nbsp;I started this with my babes in mid-September as they didn't receive a lot of sentence writing work in Kinder. I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but these ditties worked like a charm with these kids too. &nbsp;And, it produced results SO MUCH FASTER. Alas, a positive verdict is in . . . after a full year of use with two different crews . . . these classroom tested and kid approved warm-ups will forever be in my teaching arsenal. &nbsp;To learn more about this particular writing strategy, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sentence-Writing-Warm-Ups-January-1629339" target="_blank">click here.</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, DOLLING!!!! &nbsp;Enough yammering on about my beloved creation, I have three final soapbox thoughts before I exit today. These are for all you amazing teachers out there who recently jumped into the "game" and/or seasoned educators who might be stuck in that dreaded emotional response.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">First, if this idea wouldn't have played out, I wasn't afraid to re-evaluate it and make some changes . . . or even scrap the whole dang thing. That's the funny thing about teaching. What works for some groups, doesn't work for others. And, what may work for awhile with your students, might not work a few short months later. &nbsp;With all this said, my thought here is to not lock yourself into ideas. &nbsp;Let 'em morph with your crowd. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Second, DO NOT trash those old ideas. A new crew will walk in the next year and those awesome tried and true activities will fall right back into place. You know when you have a "winner" . . . just safely pocket it until the next year.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Finally, don't be afraid to fail. As we all know, teaching is all about trying new things. You'll win some and you'll lose some. We just have to let go of the dock and catch that "wind" that are kids are creating.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74WFhuJ6ACE/VolIBoh7lrI/AAAAAAAASoo/LJ5YUNqjjuQ/s1600/Let%2BGo%2Bof%2Bthe%2BDock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74WFhuJ6ACE/VolIBoh7lrI/AAAAAAAASoo/LJ5YUNqjjuQ/s400/Let%2BGo%2Bof%2Bthe%2BDock.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">There you have it. A LONG as all GET OUT post (with way too many capitals and ellipses) that outlines my thoughts on what to do when the growth you are seeing just ain't what it used to be. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Thanks so much for taking the time to visit me today. &nbsp;I'll be back again soon with a little math share :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span> </div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/01/when-growth-just-isnt-what-you-expect.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-6246318245794343923Sat, 02 Jan 2016 18:35:00 +00002016-01-05T06:41:23.922-08:00REFLECTIONS FROM "THE FACTORY"<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With 2016 already off and runnin', it seems only fitting to take a little walk down memory lane and celebrate all 2015 had to offer. &nbsp;As I sit back and examine all of my reflections, it is clear to see that it was indeed a great one. But, then again . . . aren't they all? &nbsp;(Yes, I am feeling a bit mushy and thankful for each and every day at the moment.) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dragonfliesinfirst.com/2015/12/reflections-of-2015.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TH_II6npc38/VofsylVEsQI/AAAAAAAASj8/xkZRsfAmiPs/s400/15%2Bin%2B15%2Bblog.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On that note, here's a little peek at those meaningful moments from 2015 and a handful of other random thoughts. &nbsp;This post is&nbsp;probably&nbsp;much more for me than for you,&nbsp;but there could be a few fun tidbits about me that you didn't know as well as an idea or two that you could run with (look toward the end of this post for these). &nbsp;So, without blabbering on for a moment more, here are my 2015 Reflections . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>BEST BUDS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When do you get the opportunity to job share for a year with one of your best friends on the planet? &nbsp;I learned so much from my friend during our 2014-2015 run. And, I must admit, that not a day goes by this year that I don't wish we were still at it . . . TOGETHER. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hmb64vG9teg/VogImmV_wfI/AAAAAAAASmQ/x2aznLbrnts/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.17.48%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hmb64vG9teg/VogImmV_wfI/AAAAAAAASmQ/x2aznLbrnts/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.17.48%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You're one in a million, Court.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>WHOLE 30 LIFESTYLE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks to a a whole lot of support from Rachelle Smith and Erica Bohrer, I jumped into the Whole 30 Challenge for my first time last January. &nbsp;I wanted to quit after about 36 hours, but I managed to get over the "hump" and stick with it. &nbsp;This was the BEST decision that I made last year as my food habits carried throughout the whole year. &nbsp;I have a tricky tummy that has been through four surgeries. &nbsp;Being grain free, dairy free, corn free, bean free, and processed sugar free has proven to be an absolute LIFE SAVER. &nbsp;If you have digestion issues or lack energy, I urge you to take the challenge. &nbsp;It's difficult as all get out, but once you get all of the "gunk" out of your system, you will feel <b>absolutely amazing</b>. The honey and I start a strict round on 01/03/16. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>CONFERENCE SEASON</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had the opportunity to share oodles of my math ideas at two workshops this year. &nbsp;My goal with each session was to provide as many game/activity&nbsp;ideas as possible in my 75 minute time slot. &nbsp;I always get a kick out of meeting other teachers and sharing my "out of the box" ideas on ways to make math meaningful for the little guys. &nbsp;These conferences also mean seeing&nbsp;scads&nbsp;of my favorite&nbsp;bloggy buddies. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will be attending both of these conferences again this year, so if you live in California and are interested in a jam-packed session with easy to implement STANDARDS-BASED math ideas, look me up. &nbsp;If you saw me last year . . . I am dishing out brand new activities :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyuJ0XZENxg/Vofw45bAD-I/AAAAAAAASkI/Ysa0Jhyozck/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B7.42.27%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyuJ0XZENxg/Vofw45bAD-I/AAAAAAAASkI/Ysa0Jhyozck/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B7.42.27%2BAM.png" width="246" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FICRzp75jrM/Vofw5KXKx2I/AAAAAAAASkM/Vh6jSR9-u4I/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B7.42.43%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FICRzp75jrM/Vofw5KXKx2I/AAAAAAAASkM/Vh6jSR9-u4I/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B7.42.43%2BAM.png" width="248" /></a></div><br /><ul><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">PK1 Conference (01/18 in Santa Clara, CA)&nbsp;</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">K-1st Grade Presentation</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Session A04 - 75 Minutes</span></li></ul><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So Cal Kinder Conference (03/04 in Pasadena, CA)&nbsp;</span></li><ul><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1st Grade Pre-Conference Breakout Presentations</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">AM Session P06 - 3 hours</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">PM Session P12 - 3 Hours</span></li></ul></ul><div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NEW ADDITIONS</b></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I became a mom . . . twice. &nbsp;Well, to fur babes that is :) &nbsp;When our sweet stray cat lovin' neighbor passed away, we took in two of her kitties. &nbsp;OK Kitty and Henry quickly became my special boys. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jeT1uRTe85c/VogEioyAykI/AAAAAAAASlc/Tu97twmFlF4/s1600/IMG_7959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jeT1uRTe85c/VogEioyAykI/AAAAAAAASlc/Tu97twmFlF4/s200/IMG_7959.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aGrP6X70WB0/VogEio5SWKI/AAAAAAAASlY/v_nP-OWd4wA/s1600/IMG_8166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aGrP6X70WB0/VogEio5SWKI/AAAAAAAASlY/v_nP-OWd4wA/s200/IMG_8166.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">THE KOO KOO BOYS</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of boys, I was lucky enough to land a very special visit for my school last year. &nbsp;The Koo Koo Kangaroo Boys came and put on a show for our campus. The kids were beside themselves . . . and let's face it . . . I was too. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C8DBIakiJmE/VogICP7YbhI/AAAAAAAASlw/8GqBnQMBAcY/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.24.53%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C8DBIakiJmE/VogICP7YbhI/AAAAAAAASlw/8GqBnQMBAcY/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.24.53%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>NEW BEGINNINGS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many tears and sleepless nights in the spring led me to a huge decision. Yep. I decided to leave my elementary school. After nearly a decade of service on this campus, I opted for a school a bit closer to home with a different feel. &nbsp;This was one of the most difficult choices in my life, but it proved to be right on point. Not a day goes by that I don't miss my old school -- the way that it used to function and the amazing people who helped make it tick. &nbsp;However, I couldn't be happier at my new "home away from home."</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6PLViOcLVyw/VogQt4USwkI/AAAAAAAASnk/hJsQVXVmTMI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.01.50%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6PLViOcLVyw/VogQt4USwkI/AAAAAAAASnk/hJsQVXVmTMI/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B10.01.50%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My last "look back" before I drove away.<br />#thanksevergreen</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">THE FINAL CELEBRATION</span></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The people are a GIGANTIC part of what made my last school so amazing. &nbsp;We had a final celebration that last day together in June. &nbsp;Nothing like going on a Pub Crawl with all of your co-workers. We even had oodles of door prizes that you would ONLY understand if you worked at the school. It was a night filled with laughs and&nbsp;shenanigans. If your campus doesn't have an end of the year&nbsp;celebration, I strongly urge you to plan one. &nbsp;It doesn't have to be over the top or wild like a crawl . . . just a little get together to celebrate each other and a job well done :)&nbsp;</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HQ-WJkB5Y9I/VogL78wJM4I/AAAAAAAASm8/TgRQa_QHb3s/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.18.11%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HQ-WJkB5Y9I/VogL78wJM4I/AAAAAAAASm8/TgRQa_QHb3s/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.18.11%2BAM.png" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My girls . . . sigh. <br />I miss them so much.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">CLASSROOM CREATION</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A new school means a new classroom. &nbsp;OMGOSH, people. &nbsp;I was in there nearly every day this summer making the room mine. &nbsp;From paint and furniture to organizing and planning, I labored to make Room 18 a special place for students and for me.</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1hK8OuYlroQ/VogItUIayTI/AAAAAAAASmY/uYRL_xgU3Kw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.07%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1hK8OuYlroQ/VogItUIayTI/AAAAAAAASmY/uYRL_xgU3Kw/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.07%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I might be a messy painter.</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DacsWbt6Or4/VogItuZCnCI/AAAAAAAASmc/TvU8y3NTPGk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.22%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DacsWbt6Or4/VogItuZCnCI/AAAAAAAASmc/TvU8y3NTPGk/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.22%2BAM.png" width="398" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OMGOSH . . . so much valuable crap.&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-kONtJ-Trc/VogL-ExwVlI/AAAAAAAASnE/Rji9jmlx_98/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.24.12%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-kONtJ-Trc/VogL-ExwVlI/AAAAAAAASnE/Rji9jmlx_98/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.24.12%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was so worth the the hours and hours of work. <br />I heart how Room 18 turned out.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>THE TPT EXPERIENCE</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How many of you attended the TPT Conference last year? &nbsp;It was a doozie for sure . . . so many good ideas were shared and amazing relationships were fostered during this awesome Vegas run. &nbsp;The 2016 Conference is already in the planning stages and it's going to be in Florida this year. &nbsp;If you haven't been before, let me say that it is WELL WORTH your time. &nbsp;The networking and ideas shared are worth their weight in gold.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMYNBxq_PmE/VogL5FpGukI/AAAAAAAASmw/E01mVpJUfsk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.45%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMYNBxq_PmE/VogL5FpGukI/AAAAAAAASmw/E01mVpJUfsk/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.19.45%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My marketing presentation panel.<br />These people have such AMAZING ideas!</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ25vh7pN9I/VogL4l_2-kI/AAAAAAAASms/8O0fL6JJkEs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.20.40%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ25vh7pN9I/VogL4l_2-kI/AAAAAAAASms/8O0fL6JJkEs/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.20.40%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My partners in crime - Susan Jones &amp; Melissa Kozerski</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_N-XQjra-eU/VogOf6FskfI/AAAAAAAASnQ/mO_TiCg4bbY/s1600/11659247_941435365877259_1280859526466263097_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_N-XQjra-eU/VogOf6FskfI/AAAAAAAASnQ/mO_TiCg4bbY/s400/11659247_941435365877259_1280859526466263097_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blogger Meet Up Planners<br />Blog Hoppin' Crew&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spDiEqP-oAs/VogOlVO_YrI/AAAAAAAASnY/0UKoofOwkLE/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.51.36%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spDiEqP-oAs/VogOlVO_YrI/AAAAAAAASnY/0UKoofOwkLE/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-02%2Bat%2B9.51.36%2BAM.png" width="317" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My favorite moment . . . chatting it up with the CEO :)<br />We share a random NorCal connection.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>SAYING GOODBYE</b></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The week before school started, I lost my beloved cat. &nbsp;Lou was just shy of turning 12. &nbsp;She was crabby as all get out, but we had an understanding that it was always on "her terms." &nbsp;In those 11.75 years together she saw me through 3 less than stellar boyfriends, 4 moves, a career change, and a wonderful marriage. &nbsp;Thanks for the memories sweet girl . . . you will forever be my office mascot. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>THE LEARNING CURVE</b></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">NO ONE told me that switching schools was going to be like my first year teaching. &nbsp;GOOD HEAVENS, people! &nbsp;Have any of your changed schools and felt a similar chaos? &nbsp;The learning curve is massive as the kids come in at such different places and the systems are oh so different. &nbsp;Again, I am not complaining and I am so happy with my move, but I am working my bum off to keep up this year. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ePE9HjIGWb0/VogIgFMEeFI/AAAAAAAASmA/J-xARQmLqCo/s1600/IMG_6911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ePE9HjIGWb0/VogIgFMEeFI/AAAAAAAASmA/J-xARQmLqCo/s400/IMG_6911.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That one time during the first week at my new school . . .<br />when I went back to work for two hours after dinner.<br />In my PJs no less :)</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Di6vx_fDrtQ/VogIgCNEySI/AAAAAAAASmE/9zopS-ehtms/s1600/IMG_6914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Di6vx_fDrtQ/VogIgCNEySI/AAAAAAAASmE/9zopS-ehtms/s320/IMG_6914.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Notes for days during that first month.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">FAVORITE POST</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Writing is hands down my FAVORITE subject to teach. For those of you that don't know, I majored in journalism/public relations and worked in the field for 5 years before realizing that teaching was my true calling. &nbsp;However, this love of writing has stayed with me over the years. &nbsp;Teaching my students to enjoy the process has become one of my major goals ever year. &nbsp;With this said, I poured my heart and soul into a two-part post about teaching writing to primary kiddos. &nbsp;Click on the button below to read this 2015 fave.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/09/building-dynamite-writers-in-first.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq9zIDhbSP8/Vof4elcuOsI/AAAAAAAASkg/hOd03QqM1KE/s400/BUILD%2BSTRONG%2BWRITERS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>FAVORITE CREATION&nbsp;</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My favorite creation last year was Alphabet Moves. &nbsp;I teamed up with my father (Ron Brown of Intelli-Tunes) to generate a professionally recorded song-based packet that takes letter sound practice to a whole new level. It's perfect for TK, Kinder, and the beginning of 1st. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Sound-Practice-Songs-and-Movements-2008568" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k5BLx_gOJWs/VogBkszrk0I/AAAAAAAASk8/8COwqjrjlPQ/s400/Alphabet%2BMoves_Sample%2BPicture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is this all about, you ask? &nbsp;Well, each letter of the alphabet gets a short little tune (like 1.30-1:45). &nbsp;The kids listen for words that contain the correct letter sound and complete the appropriate movement. Oh, and you don't have to come up with the movement or tell your babes how it works. &nbsp;As each song begins, the movements are given orally to the students. &nbsp;Once the voice finishes and the music starts, kiddos turn on their listening ears and start moving. It looks like this . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOG_video_class" id="BLOG_video-5945ca18958003cb" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="movie" value="https://www.youtube.com/get_player"><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="flashvars" value="flvurl=https://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3D5945ca18958003cb%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dblogger%26requiressl%3Dyes%26app%3Dblogger%26cmo%3Dsecure_transport%3Dyes%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%3Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1483486396%26sparams%3Dip,ipbits,expire,id,itag,source,requiressl%26signature%3D7677F1779D01F741181D84F03717B4770B27AB1D.642166F9BA476BFBA6307D779577BFD1DBA9190F%26key%3Dck2&amp;iurl=http://video.google.com/ThumbnailServer2?app%3Dblogger%26contentid%3D5945ca18958003cb%26offsetms%3D5000%26itag%3Dw160%26sigh%3DMeqDO3zvzimxO9jWXGvcUWpk7I0&amp;autoplay=0&amp;ps=blogger"><embed src="https://www.youtube.com/get_player" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="320" height="266" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashvars="flvurl=https://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3D5945ca18958003cb%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dblogger%26requiressl%3Dyes%26app%3Dblogger%26cmo%3Dsecure_transport%3Dyes%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%3Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1483486396%26sparams%3Dip,ipbits,expire,id,itag,source,requiressl%26signature%3D7677F1779D01F741181D84F03717B4770B27AB1D.642166F9BA476BFBA6307D779577BFD1DBA9190F%26key%3Dck2&iurl=http://video.google.com/ThumbnailServer2?app%3Dblogger%26contentid%3D5945ca18958003cb%26offsetms%3D5000%26itag%3Dw160%26sigh%3DMeqDO3zvzimxO9jWXGvcUWpk7I0&autoplay=0&ps=blogger" allowFullScreen="true" /></object></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wanna take a sample of this with you today? &nbsp;Click on the image below to try one of the tunes out with your crew. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Sound-Practice-FREE-Sample-Song-2009549" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jW19CbzSEJg/VogBxVwIuMI/AAAAAAAASlE/s0cd3v5CMpA/s400/Alphabet%2BMoves_Sample%2BPack_JPEG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>A LOOK AHEAD</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I take my first few steps into the New Year, it seems fitting to reflect a bit on where I am going. &nbsp;I have been a bit quiet as of late. &nbsp;It sounds crazy but, I haven't felt like I have had much to say. {If you know me or have met me, you know that I am loud and can talk your ear off.} My goal as we get rolling this year is to find that voice again and fall into a manageable schedule that allows me to find balance between my "first job," the blog world, and my home life.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In addition to sorting out life balance, I will be making some rather large decisions this year. &nbsp;From a pending spring surgery (Endometriosis SUCKS - this will be my 5th date with the knife) and work choices that align to my stupid health issues to decisions about IVF and whether to&nbsp;pursue&nbsp;motherhood, there is a lot in&nbsp;the cards in 2016. Who knew my 36th chapter would be slated to be so climactic? &nbsp;All I have to say is, BRING IT. I so am ready to start this adventure.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-46WSri6Ymmg/Vof9UrER9eI/AAAAAAAASkw/KN8LO90KcMA/s1600/Adventure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-46WSri6Ymmg/Vof9UrER9eI/AAAAAAAASkw/KN8LO90KcMA/s400/Adventure.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><u><b><br /></b></u><u><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ONE LITTLE WORD FOR 2016</span></span></b></u><br /><u><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></u><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4WpSAvLVOg/VogD1K173DI/AAAAAAAASlQ/kRWLvQL16es/s1600/One%2BLittle%2BWord%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4WpSAvLVOg/VogD1K173DI/AAAAAAAASlQ/kRWLvQL16es/s320/One%2BLittle%2BWord%2B2016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be sure you hop on over and check out the <a href="http://www.dragonfliesinfirst.com/2015/12/reflections-of-2015.html" target="_blank">linky party</a> or maybe even join in the fun with a post of your own. &nbsp;Thanks for taking the time to visit me. &nbsp;I will be back again tomorrow with some goodies for our first week back. &nbsp;Big hugs and Merry 2016 to you. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2016/01/reflections-from-factory.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-3041996771701688879Sun, 13 Dec 2015 19:54:00 +00002015-12-13T11:54:41.198-08:00ChristmasholidaysJUMPIN' INTO THE HOLIDAYS - A PEEK AT THE PAST TWO WEEKS<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I know I always seem to start off a post exclaiming that time has flown by. Well, today isn't any different except that these past two weeks were extra zippy. Seriously folks. I looked up and we were already rollin' into ANOTHER Friday. I love those kind of weeks. It usually means it was a grand run . . . and it certainly was for the sweet bunch in Room 18 ;) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that typical "Dolling" introduction, here is a little look-see at a few of the fun things we found ourselves wrapped up in . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>THE GOOD OLD GB MAN</b></u></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">There is just something about the Gingerbread Man in December. &nbsp;He always seems to kick off the holiday just right in my classroom. &nbsp;It's a way to ease into the holidays without "pegging" the Christmas excitement too much too soon :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We read oodles of stories, wrote our hearts out, completed a little GB science and found ourselves mixed up in tons of other related activities. The kids were in their element . . . and let's face it . . . I was too :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dr-VAEYCFe0/Vm2-QEJZIvI/AAAAAAAAShI/0ZTWF29B-Qo/s1600/IMG_5224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dr-VAEYCFe0/Vm2-QEJZIvI/AAAAAAAAShI/0ZTWF29B-Qo/s400/IMG_5224.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We just had to make <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Math-454434" target="_blank">Fact Family Gingerbread Houses</a>!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ADWnVbVgV4/Vm3AAQ3FalI/AAAAAAAAShY/EVP4VeXFdWo/s1600/IMG_8258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ADWnVbVgV4/Vm3AAQ3FalI/AAAAAAAAShY/EVP4VeXFdWo/s320/IMG_8258.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The activities in <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-1617917" target="_blank">Amanda Richardson's GB Pack</a> were flawless!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SeHV0B171UQ/Vm3AAk5vShI/AAAAAAAAShg/6QSi_5CF4Vo/s1600/IMG_8295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SeHV0B171UQ/Vm3AAk5vShI/AAAAAAAAShg/6QSi_5CF4Vo/s320/IMG_8295.jpg" width="283" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A little <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Science-2223548" target="_blank">GB Man Science</a>? &nbsp;Um . . . yes please!<br />Thanks Always Kindergarten. &nbsp;This was a huge HIT :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs9XDwW_1mA/Vm3A5myIctI/AAAAAAAASh0/TQArwH7QvwY/s1600/IMG_1186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs9XDwW_1mA/Vm3A5myIctI/AAAAAAAASh0/TQArwH7QvwY/s400/IMG_1186.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gotta love this oldie, but such a goodie.<br />We made our <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Adjective-Craft-Center-Activities-Bakin-Up-Adjectives-431230" target="_blank">GB Adjective Cookies</a><br />They absolutely nailed those describing words.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XxqFtaooQU/VmT5n_6WdvI/AAAAAAAASf0/npAw1jvJsCg/s1600/IMG_8253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XxqFtaooQU/VmT5n_6WdvI/AAAAAAAASf0/npAw1jvJsCg/s320/IMG_8253.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A little GB Man taste test was in order too.<br />I always use this amazing <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Description-Writing-Freebie-420894" target="_blank">FREEBIE from Teaching with Love &amp; Laughter</a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD</span></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We kicked off our Holidays Around the World Studies with Hanukkah during that first week of December. &nbsp;My students were all smiles and loved everything I dished their way. In true Dolling form, we cooked a "cheat" version of potato latkes and it took me roughly 15-20 long as all get out minutes to realize that I had the griddle on warm instead of 350 :P &nbsp;#palmtoforehead</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We hit up all of the European countries last week and the kids gobbled it up. Thanks to <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holidays-Around-the-World-Part-I-and-Part-II-Bundled-429282" target="_blank">Rachelle from What the Teacher Wants</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holidays-Around-The-World-Its-a-Holiday-Globe-Trot-with-Scott-1003689" target="_blank">Lyndsey from A Year of Many Firsts</a>, we had everything we needed to learn all about holiday celebrations in those beloved countries. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQQ1ACffge8/Vm28-0x8GlI/AAAAAAAASg4/o7V1r-prI10/s1600/IMG_8337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQQ1ACffge8/Vm28-0x8GlI/AAAAAAAASg4/o7V1r-prI10/s320/IMG_8337.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We also have been slippin' in a little integrated math too. &nbsp;I whipped up a Draw &amp; Solve packet that goes along with celebrations around the world. &nbsp;It's filled with facts and rigorous word problems. &nbsp;The kids are loving them! &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Around-the-World-Math-2235128" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PVtyoeQ2NmQ/Vm2-Aw1_uFI/AAAAAAAAShA/-sggISivz4I/s320/Christmas%2BAround%2Bthe%2BWorld%2BDraw%2BAnd%2BSolve%2BPreview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">If you are doing Holidays Around the World, be sure to check out YouTube for Rick Steve's Christmas in Europe videos. &nbsp;Be sure you preview them first as some of them talk about wine and/or are heavy on the church side of things which can get sticky in public school. However, I ended up using most of them as I decided I would respond to any heat with a, "We are simply learning about traditions." France and England are particularly wonderful . . . the Paris shots make me tear up a little. &nbsp;Sigh . . . such a sap over here. &nbsp;Just type Rick Steve's Christmas into the search bar and most of them should come up :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyUertpQ0No/Vm24vPFFbSI/AAAAAAAASgg/y9n6l59iw-c/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-12-13%2Bat%2B10.27.26%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yyUertpQ0No/Vm24vPFFbSI/AAAAAAAASgg/y9n6l59iw-c/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-12-13%2Bat%2B10.27.26%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Next week we will be transitioning out of Europe. &nbsp;We are rolling into Russia, Mexico, and Australia before heading back home to our beloved USA. I cannot wait to show them what I have up my sleeve . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kJG3c0bnJY/Vm26iHuxk1I/AAAAAAAASgs/YA9c9Tn9TfM/s1600/IMG_8412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kJG3c0bnJY/Vm26iHuxk1I/AAAAAAAASgs/YA9c9Tn9TfM/s320/IMG_8412.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I absolutely adore this class.<br />So, I am pulling out all of the stops this year!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">HOLIDAY FLAVORED EVERYTHING</span></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here's a quick little picture walk of a few other holiday-flavored activities that we tackled last week or that are "penned" into next week's lineup. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9StV5lAEiw/Vm3Hwdo9xvI/AAAAAAAASiE/zU-7lnjm8KQ/s1600/IMG_4539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9StV5lAEiw/Vm3Hwdo9xvI/AAAAAAAASiE/zU-7lnjm8KQ/s320/IMG_4539.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Sweet Story will hit on Friday during fun holiday rotations.<br />This kids always love making silly stories and droppin' that peppermint.<br />Check this freebie out <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Sweet-Story-Holiday-Flavored-Adjective-Freebie-439361" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4wBzZsnmqs/Vm3HxZRJNhI/AAAAAAAASiM/QIRqjv4rmWA/s1600/IMG_5094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4wBzZsnmqs/Vm3HxZRJNhI/AAAAAAAASiM/QIRqjv4rmWA/s400/IMG_5094.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of peppermints . . .<br />We learned about Compound Words last week!<br />This <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Compound-Words-Were-Sweet-On-Compound-Words-426779" target="_blank">CP Word Craft</a> is on the ticket for Monday.<br />The kids are going to flip :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hVvqoKytPyI/Vm3HxCpzsmI/AAAAAAAASiQ/_U8Ye3b0jrg/s1600/IMG_5250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hVvqoKytPyI/Vm3HxCpzsmI/AAAAAAAASiQ/_U8Ye3b0jrg/s320/IMG_5250.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Craft-Activities-Christmas-Sunnies-457236" target="_blank">Christmas Sunnies </a>will be all the rage come Wednesday.<br />It's the perfect addition to our Australia holiday studies.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BNjXFPClck/Vm3Hxx1sE6I/AAAAAAAASiU/YYhacKpLa1s/s1600/IMG_8362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BNjXFPClck/Vm3Hxx1sE6I/AAAAAAAASiU/YYhacKpLa1s/s400/IMG_8362.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">CH WORD WORK<br />We made /ch/ word chains . . . they LOVED it :)<br />I loved it too - low prep is awesome!</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><b><u><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;">PARTY PLANNING</span></u></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">In an attempt to totally immerse myself in the Christmas Spirit (and possibly give myself a heart attack in the process), I decided to co-plan our school's Holiday party. &nbsp;Here's the quick backstory on this one. &nbsp;I was sitting with one of my teaching besties and asked if our campus hosted a party (if you follow me, you know that this is my first year at this school). &nbsp;Well, I'm sure you can guess the answer to this one, but just in case you didn't figure it out yet . . . I heard her utter, "Um, they haven't had one in years!!" Our eyes immediately locked and you could read what the other was thinking. &nbsp;You've got it . . . we&nbsp;subconsciously&nbsp;yelled, "LET'S GET ONE GOING AGAIN!" &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We are so dorking out on this thing. &nbsp;From room flow, invites, and background mixes to poster-sized welcome signs and cute table decor, we are in full on party planning mode. The budget is next to nothing, but we managed to get a jazz band for the first hour, a photo booth, and the venue donated . . . HOLLA! It's going to be a swell shindig and it just feels good giving back this season.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pri0txvYv3M/Vm3IX_LJDYI/AAAAAAAASio/fcLOvHsYXZo/s1600/IMG_8321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pri0txvYv3M/Vm3IX_LJDYI/AAAAAAAASio/fcLOvHsYXZo/s320/IMG_8321.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3VkFJthFlNQ/Vm3IZgvmTCI/AAAAAAAASi0/u-RdeuZZG2Q/s1600/IMG_8366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3VkFJthFlNQ/Vm3IZgvmTCI/AAAAAAAASi0/u-RdeuZZG2Q/s320/IMG_8366.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yep . . . we have officially jumped all in on this one. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">PicMonkey helped with the invites and the awesome Welcome Sign!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have been working on my music mix for days . . .&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">U gotta know your crowd and set the mood :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gVOl_DQoNPU/Vm3IX5btbAI/AAAAAAAASik/yS9V0n10lEs/s1600/IMG_8369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gVOl_DQoNPU/Vm3IX5btbAI/AAAAAAAASik/yS9V0n10lEs/s400/IMG_8369.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>ENJOYING THE LITTLE THINGS</b></u></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Although I catch myself getting a bit worked up now and again when I am not working round the clock, I have given myself permission to sit back and enjoy the little things this December. &nbsp;My health has taken a turn and I am struggling to keep up . . . cue sad face #endometriosissucks. &nbsp;I'll be honest here . . . it is VERY difficult for me to let go (as I know it is for so many teachers out there). However, backing off is a necessity from time to time and the holiday season is a great time to let down a bit. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">With this said . . . the blog and the TPT shop has gone a bit dark as of late. Instead of working on new ideas, I put up two trees last week. We took the time to hang lights and we bought our very first wreath (cue to horns). &nbsp;The Christmas carols have been on repeat round our place . . . I am all about Perry Como, The Rat Pack, good ol' Bing, and the Carpenters. Oh, and the hubby and I also go on driving dates at night. We pack the dog into the truck, grab a cup of tea or hot chocolate, turn the seat warmers on high, and drive around looking at all of the holiday lights around town . . . it's pretty magical :) </span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">What are you doing to enjoy the season?</span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9liu_sMVsOE/Vm3I-4KG2pI/AAAAAAAASjA/vOHTMN7uOlo/s1600/IMG_8406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9liu_sMVsOE/Vm3I-4KG2pI/AAAAAAAASjA/vOHTMN7uOlo/s320/IMG_8406.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fugJGSTwUC8/Vm3I--KDwDI/AAAAAAAASi8/gtr8adXJWl4/s1600/IMG_8408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fugJGSTwUC8/Vm3I--KDwDI/AAAAAAAASi8/gtr8adXJWl4/s320/IMG_8408.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that note, I am off to prep a little for school, work on door prizes for our party, and wrap some Christmas gifts. Those trees need something under them and I can't find any more good hiding places for the packages that have been coming in the mail :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Sending oddles of Holiday Cheer your way! Wishing you a great run at school this next week. Big hugs to you :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/12/jumpin-into-holidays-peek-at-past-two.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-6888855072218586573Wed, 02 Dec 2015 03:25:00 +00002015-12-01T19:25:01.149-08:00centersWord workFUN SMALL GROUP WORD FAMILY GAME FROM CARSON-DELLOSA<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's that time when I get the privilege of sharing my thoughts on a Carson-Dellosa product that I was able to use in my classroom. &nbsp;This round I was able to choose a word game (um . . . right up my alley). The kids were all about this fun dice ditty.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IPuk1KI_oQQ/Vl5gQOblhfI/AAAAAAAASfE/K3gnVy7Gmkw/s1600/IMG_8139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IPuk1KI_oQQ/Vl5gQOblhfI/AAAAAAAASfE/K3gnVy7Gmkw/s320/IMG_8139.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The company sent me a game called, <a href="http://www.carsondellosa.com/products/140318__Word-Pass-Dice-Game-140318" target="_blank">WORD PASS</a>. &nbsp;It comes in an easy to store tube and contains a handful of word family dice, a mini pencil and a little pad of paper. The word families covered range from simple CVC and CVCe to more advanced vowel team endings. &nbsp;I absolutely LOVED this feature as I played this game with all of my reading groups. &nbsp;I was able to pick a different die to use with each group . . . one that was right at their level! &nbsp;#score</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uQl5FxKEG0/Vl5hLd7O5GI/AAAAAAAASfM/y4unuyJVz68/s1600/Game_WordPass.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uQl5FxKEG0/Vl5hLd7O5GI/AAAAAAAASfM/y4unuyJVz68/s320/Game_WordPass.png" width="176" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kids roll the dice and attempt to write as many words in that "family" as possible before someone yells, "PASS!" &nbsp;A timer is set and the goal is to come up with as many REAL words as possible before the timer expires. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The thing I loved about this game was that I could easily change it up to fit what I specifically wanted. &nbsp;The original rules worked for my higher kids, but were a little intense for my low babes. &nbsp;I was able to morph the game just enough to fit their needs - I yelled pass when I saw them struggling and I often would whisper initial sounds. &nbsp;Either way we played it . . . the kids were drooling all over themselves and it proved to be a wonderful center activity. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdX9Rz5Ctsc/Vl5iviNw1MI/AAAAAAAASfY/P3OHPZxafMI/s1600/IMG_8140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdX9Rz5Ctsc/Vl5iviNw1MI/AAAAAAAASfY/P3OHPZxafMI/s320/IMG_8140.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The only thing I changed was the paper size. &nbsp;The little pad was just not big enough for my babies in first (IMO). &nbsp;Therefore, I quickly whipped up a word pass sheet that would allow them to write like they normally do . . . BIG :) &nbsp;I could also see this working well with a chopped piece of newsprint.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--MNmqacIp0U/Vl5i0yKFEYI/AAAAAAAASfg/i4Pr7Rv-Ass/s1600/IMG_8149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--MNmqacIp0U/Vl5i0yKFEYI/AAAAAAAASfg/i4Pr7Rv-Ass/s320/IMG_8149.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When all was said and done, I felt oh so great about this game. &nbsp;The kids loved it and it will definitely make multiple appearances this year! &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For more information on WORD PASS, <a href="http://www.carsondellosa.com/products/140318__Word-Pass-Dice-Game-140318" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. Thanks so much for taking the time to visit me tonight! &nbsp;I will see you again oh so soon :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Review Disclaimer:&nbsp;</span><i style="background-color: white;">I participate in the Brand Ambassador Program for Carson-Dellosa and have received this product for free to review.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/12/fun-small-group-word-family-game-from.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-8809296890909487077Sun, 29 Nov 2015 17:35:00 +00002015-11-29T16:55:22.304-08:00ChristmasfreebieholidaysTIPS FOR DRAFTING STELLER HOLIDAY LESSON PLANS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">As I sat down to plan out my holiday run with my firsties, my head started to spin a bit. &nbsp;Even though planning for this fun season is exciting, it can be a bit overwhelming. &nbsp;I found myself asking, "With only three weeks until Christmas Break, how am I going to get it all in this year?" &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sDh1P5XA8A/Vlssf2CcU4I/AAAAAAAASd8/cHyBDsKd9zw/s1600/HOLIDAY%2BPLANNING%2BTIPS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sDh1P5XA8A/Vlssf2CcU4I/AAAAAAAASd8/cHyBDsKd9zw/s400/HOLIDAY%2BPLANNING%2BTIPS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Anyone else have this feeling? &nbsp;There are SO many stellar projects to get in this time of year and you can leverage learning in the classroom like NO OTHER. Not only do you have those all time favorite lessons, but you also want to fit some new ditties into the mix. However, with holiday performance practice, mandatory planning days, specials, classroom assistant schedules, minimum days, a district evaluation, and other required additions this month, it ain't easy to schedule things out. It's enough to make your head spin and jack up that heart rate . . . especially when you are on a new team and they want you to take the lead this year. GULP!&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">After backing away last weekend, I was able to take a deep breath and figure out a method that helped me get my planning angst under control. With just a few simple steps, I feel like I am ready to rock the next 15 days!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>LONG RANGE IT</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I was trying to figure out how to share my big plans without having to map out every detail in the plan book. &nbsp;Then it hit me. &nbsp;DUH . . . make a calendar and long range plan the month. &nbsp;Just hit the highlights. &nbsp;Not only will this give a good snapshot for you (and anyone you are sharing with), but it also allows you to figure out the "bigger ticket" items that will drive the theme or overall learning from day to day. &nbsp;Here's a look at my chicken scratch . . . it proved to be the perfect start to my holiday planning process. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-obEIC6CWyq8/Vlsd1-ZmQfI/AAAAAAAAScY/7SMCJWaaSy8/s1600/IMG_8185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-obEIC6CWyq8/Vlsd1-ZmQfI/AAAAAAAAScY/7SMCJWaaSy8/s320/IMG_8185.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>FIND THAT OLD PLANBOOK</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Most of you probably already do this, but it always helps to pull out past planbooks. &nbsp;I suggest going back more than one year as different things make it into the mix depending on your schedule. &nbsp;Now . . . if I could just&nbsp;decipher&nbsp;my cryptic notes&nbsp;:P &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9SnCQWY6ebM/Vlsecek5v3I/AAAAAAAAScg/G5exh6SmwWM/s1600/IMG_8191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9SnCQWY6ebM/Vlsecek5v3I/AAAAAAAAScg/G5exh6SmwWM/s320/IMG_8191.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>TAKE A PICTURE WALK</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I find that planbooks don't tell the whole story. After nine years in the classroom, I don't always take the most detailed notes in these. &nbsp;In addition, I may see a new idea the night before and not add it to the book. (I am horrible about updating my plans if I take a detour . . . probably because I do it ALL of the time.) &nbsp;With this said, looking back at photos is a stellar way to remember all of the cool projects you hit within a certain time frame. &nbsp;Go back and look at EVERY December run of photos . . . I bet something is hiding in there that you forgot ALL about :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5pMMUg0cfY/Vlsejw3IpcI/AAAAAAAASco/fCBOZbp26PY/s1600/IMG_8192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5pMMUg0cfY/Vlsejw3IpcI/AAAAAAAASco/fCBOZbp26PY/s400/IMG_8192.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fact-Families-Gingerbread-Math-Craftivity-454434" target="_blank">Gingerbread Fact Family Houses</a> were already on the list.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So were the fun <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Craft-Activities-Christmas-Sunnies-457236" target="_blank">Christmas "Sunnies."</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">However, I forgot all about <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Deck-the-Classroom-4-easy-Christmas-crafts-1000852" target="_blank">Ms. Lemons BME Light Craftivity</a>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This one made the best display two years ago . . . I put it back in this year!</span></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>PERUSE TPT/PINTEREST AND PUT ON YOUR THINKING CAP</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Although most of my schedule is set for Christmas, new ideas are a must every year. It keeps things interesting for you and allows you to target new concepts and standards. &nbsp;This year I added a few awesome ideas to the mix. &nbsp;Sure, the themes are pretty much the same as it has been every year for little old me (gingerbread and into Christmas Around the World), but I found/came up with some killer additions for this season! &nbsp;Case and point . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k14QSd-kP_I/Vlsh1cmd2HI/AAAAAAAASc0/9mbQF8zJcEs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B7.58.52%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="101" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k14QSd-kP_I/Vlsh1cmd2HI/AAAAAAAASc0/9mbQF8zJcEs/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B7.58.52%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The perfect addition to my GB unit.<br />It incorporates all of my favorite versions!<br /><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-1617917" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check it out.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOhYm7M-NlQ/VlskVUPxSVI/AAAAAAAASdQ/OLpqvfVXnxw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B8.09.18%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="97" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOhYm7M-NlQ/VlskVUPxSVI/AAAAAAAASdQ/OLpqvfVXnxw/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B8.09.18%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Can you tell I am on a Gingerbread kick?<br />Love this packet from Ms. Simmons :)<br /><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gingerbread-Science-2223548" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check it out.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bgtvi1BM1dg/Vlsh1aqpjpI/AAAAAAAASdI/cOJUsyRiiX4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B8.03.03%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="106" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bgtvi1BM1dg/Vlsh1aqpjpI/AAAAAAAASdI/cOJUsyRiiX4/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-11-29%2Bat%2B8.03.03%2BAM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Sentence Writing Warm-Ups have become a daily must for me.<br />In less than 10 minutes a day, you can mold stronger writers :)<br /><a href="http://sentence/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check it out.</span><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJW6aOgRYaQ/Vlt07RQKe8I/AAAAAAAASes/U1LfjdjlUv8/s1600/Christmas%2BAround%2Bthe%2BWorld%2BDraw%2BAnd%2BSolve%2BPreview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJW6aOgRYaQ/Vlt07RQKe8I/AAAAAAAASes/U1LfjdjlUv8/s400/Christmas%2BAround%2Bthe%2BWorld%2BDraw%2BAnd%2BSolve%2BPreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Here's my latest creation</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">This packet takes Christmas&nbsp;Around&nbsp;the World into your math block!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Christmas-Around-the-World-Math-2235128" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to check this new EDITABLE product out :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>PLACE THE "MUST DO" AND "FAVORITES" FIRST</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now that you have done all of your research, you are ready to pencil in your plans. &nbsp;When I did this yesterday, I placed all of my MUST DO and FAVORITES first. &nbsp;I did all three weeks worth. &nbsp;Then, I went back and filled in the holes with my extras. &nbsp;It worked like a charm.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zD1iPG2wPg0/VlsnSmdz_1I/AAAAAAAASdk/3S1UWGkr9ik/s1600/IMG_8188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zD1iPG2wPg0/VlsnSmdz_1I/AAAAAAAASdk/3S1UWGkr9ik/s400/IMG_8188.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Next week (and the week after) I will be able to roll through quickly.<br />All the main items have been placed and I can plug the holes.<br />#outsmartingtheplanbook</span>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBeGPWI8pSE/VlsnS4gmMuI/AAAAAAAASdo/9meNA0L8t1Q/s1600/IMG_8195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBeGPWI8pSE/VlsnS4gmMuI/AAAAAAAASdo/9meNA0L8t1Q/s320/IMG_8195.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It's a messy process . . . well, at least for me.<br />However, for the first time in FOREVER, I feel like I'm dialed.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, there you have it. &nbsp;A little outline on how to create amazing December plans that strive to get ALL those beloved projects and activites into the mix. &nbsp;If you have any additional tips regarding holiday lesson planning, I would love to hear them. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Before you go, here are a few freebies you might want to cram into your books as you plan today.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_gYCGzVzuz3NnNsMTJkb3VKTW8/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IItucPI5uBk/Vls2yZsCGoI/AAAAAAAASec/FNHiV1buqY4/s400/My%2BTurkey%2BBreak%2BFreebie.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_gYCGzVzuz3NnNsMTJkb3VKTW8/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Sweet-Story-Holiday-Flavored-Adjective-Freebie-439361" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_3_XiLVoB0/Vls2wol-LAI/AAAAAAAASeU/1iOJJNdmDRk/s400/Sweet%2BStory%2BFreebie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Addition-Freebie-Doubles-1586630" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0q1Vj5XVcIU/Vlstr8GgNyI/AAAAAAAASeE/ZfeQHdIQknY/s400/Double%2BTrouble%2BPreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">On that note, I am out. &nbsp;It's tome to start preppin' those plans of mine. Have a wonderful week . . . I'll see you again soon :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/11/tips-for-drafting-steller-holiday.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-958662328673542108Sun, 15 Nov 2015 18:53:00 +00002015-11-15T10:53:23.897-08:00ChristmasfreebiethanksgivingTURKEY WEEK IDEAS/FREEBIES + A LITTLE HOLIDAY PREP<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">How in the world are we already at the end of the first trimester and rollin' into Turkey Break? I know I ask similar questions quite a bit on here (it must be my old age), but time just seems to be zooming by these days. &nbsp;Despite the lack of time left in the classroom before vacation, we are going to make the most of it in Room 18. &nbsp;Not only do I like to celebrate Thanksgiving and turkey fun, but I also like to do a little prep for the Christmas season. &nbsp;By this I mean that I like the kids to complete one or two slightly holiday flavored activities. &nbsp;Over break, I can sneak in and hang a few student created boards . . . empty bulletin boards make me cringe. &nbsp;With this said, here are a few of my Turkey Week Favorites . . . and some ideas and freebies too. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Who Will Carve Write</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Now that my firsties are getting good in the sentence department, it is time to add a little creative fun to the mix. &nbsp;The week before Thanksgiving I always read, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Will-Carve-Turkey-This-Thanksgiving/dp/0545340608/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1447612139&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=who+will+carve+the+turkey+this+thanksgiving" target="_blank"><i>Who Will Carve the Turkey This Thanksgiving</i>, by Jerry Pallotta</a>. &nbsp;If you haven't heard of this sweet story, it talks about different animals carving the turkey and what would happen. &nbsp;The kids always crack up when they hear this one (and let's face it . . . so do I). &nbsp;We use this model to come up with our own animal carving scenarios. A close sentence gets thrown up on the board and we brainstorm a bit. &nbsp;Then, it's off to the races. &nbsp;The kids always come up with the most outlandish things and they barely know that they are even doing work. Now that's my kind of lesson :) &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8HzubdF-Zx4/VkjOxp2x7YI/AAAAAAAASa0/UEaVbP5bQ74/s1600/IMG_4833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8HzubdF-Zx4/VkjOxp2x7YI/AAAAAAAASa0/UEaVbP5bQ74/s320/IMG_4833.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2G6z9bGYBOQ/VkjQJB19oBI/AAAAAAAASbI/BfXXr_8SARQ/s1600/IMG_4837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2G6z9bGYBOQ/VkjQJB19oBI/AAAAAAAASbI/BfXXr_8SARQ/s320/IMG_4837.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUBP6R5PnXo/VkjOxsAl_GI/AAAAAAAASa4/eXTeZLhlMSg/s1600/IMG_4842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUBP6R5PnXo/VkjOxsAl_GI/AAAAAAAASa4/eXTeZLhlMSg/s400/IMG_4842.jpg" width="342" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Interested in trying this with your crew? &nbsp;You're in luck . . . I have it as a FREEBIE right <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/zbnvoweqgt66o3r/Carve%20The%20Turkey%20Freebie_Final.pptx?dl=0" target="_blank">HERE</a>. &nbsp;Three levels are included. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>A Plate Full of Thanks</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This craft is always a parent favorite (and it's one of mine too). &nbsp;It is a new twist on a Thankful Write and it isn't a TURKEY :) The sweetest things come out of this activity. &nbsp;I always tear up a little when I hear some of the things that come out of kids' mouths. &nbsp;I have to catch myself and go to my "happy place," so I don't start bawling their faces. Sigh . . . I'm such a sap. &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTzZ9lWsCM4/VkjQSPVfvpI/AAAAAAAASbU/0K9jMbVV-b4/s1600/IMG_4910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTzZ9lWsCM4/VkjQSPVfvpI/AAAAAAAASbU/0K9jMbVV-b4/s400/IMG_4910.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zwlvDMiTyyc/VkjQRu2wF7I/AAAAAAAASbQ/jkqoh-KBIxQ/s1600/IMG_8048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zwlvDMiTyyc/VkjQRu2wF7I/AAAAAAAASbQ/jkqoh-KBIxQ/s320/IMG_8048.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><br /> <span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The fun thing about this craft is you get to teach the kids how to set the table too. &nbsp;Quite a few of the kids already know all about this as they are in charge of this chore nightly. &nbsp;However, there are a handful of kids who have NO IDEA what you're talking about. &nbsp;Check out this mini pack <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Thankgiving-Craft-A-Plate-Full-of-Thanks-407059" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>The Turkey Trot</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">If you have a performance or feast event or even if you don't . . . this tune is a doozie. &nbsp;It's a Freebie from Ron Brown's Intelli-Tunes and an instant classic. My kids always used sing and dance to this one during our big Turkey Play. Now that I am at a new school, I can't pass up the chance to learn this one. &nbsp;We will still boogie to this ditty . . . for our own enjoyment. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RrJpDJipcjU/VkjRUZEatsI/AAAAAAAASbg/zl8nHJP7am8/s1600/IMG_4371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RrJpDJipcjU/VkjRUZEatsI/AAAAAAAASbg/zl8nHJP7am8/s320/IMG_4371.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting ready to perform last year.<br /><a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/free-downloads-and-activities.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to snag this tune for free (just scroll down a bit).<br />Yes, you get to SHAKE those TAIL FEATHERS with all your might :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>How To Cook A Turkey</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I found this on a blog YEARS ago and I absolutely love to save this write for Turkey Week. &nbsp;The kids say the funniest things and these writes make a great backdrop for any Thanksgiving Performance. &nbsp;You can find all sorts of fun versions of this on <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Browse/Search:how%20to%20cook%20a%20turkey" target="_blank">TPT</a>. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>TH Wreaths</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so I don't want to just focus on Thanksgiving activities this week as all of these items will go home on Friday. &nbsp;I need a little somethin' - somethin' to hold on to . . . that is relevant for the upcoming season. &nbsp;Well, here's a little idea I always run with during Turkey Week (usually that Friday before break). &nbsp;We always seem to be working on digraphs this time of year . . . TH to be a little more specific. &nbsp;So, I like to have the kids make TH Wreaths as a fun word work activity. &nbsp;It isn't too Christmasy out of context . . . but they fit right in after the vacation with all the holiday cheer that will be kicking into high gear. &nbsp;Here are the quick and low-prep steps for this one.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJl_Ue560Jw/VkjSVz9NQpI/AAAAAAAASbo/Oq8jsDJvGig/s1600/IMG_4455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJl_Ue560Jw/VkjSVz9NQpI/AAAAAAAASbo/Oq8jsDJvGig/s320/IMG_4455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><ol><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Give your kiddos a regular old while paper plate with the center circle cut out. &nbsp;You can either pre-prep these or just make slits so the kids can get started easily (I have done it both ways)". &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Have your kids color the plate green. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Trace their hands on green paper. &nbsp;I suggest doubling up the paper so that they only have to cut four times. &nbsp;They need 7-8 total hands. &nbsp;I also suggest that you do this ahead of time. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Brainstorm a list of TH words on the board.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Invite your students to write one TH word on the palm of each hand.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Staple the hands around the edge of the plate to create a wreath.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Put out red paper for the kids to cut circles and add "berries."</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Hang over Turkey Break for some standards-based HOLIDAY CHEER :)</span></li></ol><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Class Christmas Tree</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I have blogged about this one before, but it is a pre-Turkey Break fave for sure. The best part is that the kids don't even know that they are doing something for Christmas. &nbsp;It's just a strange project that the teacher asked me to do . . . sneaky . . . sneaky :) &nbsp;Here are the steps for this one.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w43B_N7s87A/VkjUGFmHhBI/AAAAAAAASb0/9j8x_5H41r0/s1600/CLASS%2BCHRISTMAS%2BTREE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w43B_N7s87A/VkjUGFmHhBI/AAAAAAAASb0/9j8x_5H41r0/s400/CLASS%2BCHRISTMAS%2BTREE.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><ol><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Give each student an equilateral triangle (I like 8-9" sides). &nbsp;I STRONGLY suggest that YOU cut these out . . . otherwise your "tree" won't fit together neatly. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Ask your kids to decorate their triangles using scraps of paper. &nbsp;Give them a few ideas - cut shapes, hearts, and zig-zags. &nbsp;Make stripes or polkadots. &nbsp;They sky is the limit.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Pull your students to add a little glitter to these creations. &nbsp;They can make dots, lines, or swirls.&nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Over the vacation, use these triangles to create a Group Christmas Tree. &nbsp;They fit together in an alternating pattern . . . one point up &nbsp;. . . the next point down. &nbsp;</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I like to hang a writing assignment in the "sky" around the tree. &nbsp;It varies from year to year, but no matter which one I choose, it makes for the best student-created bulletin board.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">NOTE - Be sure you do the math on this one and draw it out based on the number of triangles you have from your class. &nbsp;I have botched the hanging job on more than one occasion and had to start over. &nbsp;You will most likely have extra triangles. &nbsp;I just use these to make single Christmas trees off to the sides. &nbsp;</span></li></ol><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Alright, so there you have it my friends. &nbsp;A few ideas to help get you through the week and jump start the next season (without going too Christmas crazy just yet). &nbsp;I hope you have a wonderful Sunday. I'll see you again soon.</span><br /><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/11/turkey-week-ideasfreebies-little.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-7648837865659635059Sun, 08 Nov 2015 16:33:00 +00002015-11-08T12:33:37.031-08:00brain breaksmovementTRANSITION TIPS & BRAIN BREAK IDEAS TO INCREASE ENGAGEMENT<span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We all know that lengthy periods with immobile kiddos spells trouble in the classroom - decreased engagement, behavior problems, heads on desks, and countless other undesirable outcomes. &nbsp;Well, with the wet weather coming and the standards kicking into high gear, here are a few movement/transition ideas that just may be the ticket for you and your crew.</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-_GvKZj-X8/Vj9hEUqNQAI/AAAAAAAASXg/w9w5aY2p2EM/s1600/Brain%2BBreak%2BIdeas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-_GvKZj-X8/Vj9hEUqNQAI/AAAAAAAASXg/w9w5aY2p2EM/s400/Brain%2BBreak%2BIdeas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><b><u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">STANDARDS-BASED PE GAMES</span></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">We all have standards to cover . . . why not mix it up with a little movement while you are at it? &nbsp;This one is pretty easy to implement if you think outside of the box just a bit.&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Here's my backstory on this one. At my old school, I had to teach my own PE period . . . and I REALLY DISLIKE TO TEACH PE. &nbsp;I know. &nbsp;I know. &nbsp;Such strong language. &nbsp;I am sorry, but I have to be honest here. &nbsp;PE and I just don't get along. &nbsp;I always feel like I should be pushing through another lesson. I know that kids need to get out, but this block just ain't for me. &nbsp;Physical Education is so important, but it is getting harder and harder to get through all of the core curriculum. Well, a few years ago, I realized that you could easily combine the two. &nbsp;You can still teach standards and work in PE at the same time. Whoa . . . what??!!! &nbsp;Yep. You can turn just about any concept into an organized team game via relay races. &nbsp;Not only do these activities get the kids out and cover the PE time, but they also promote teamwork and put smiles on our students' faces. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Begin by picking a concept you want to target . . . math facts, complete sentences, vowel teams, alphabet, vocab, etc. &nbsp;Now, all you need is some kind of labeled manipulative. &nbsp;(By labeled I mean that you mark them with words, facts, sentences, etc.) &nbsp;You can use laminated cards, foam pieces, bean bags, tennis balls . . . anything the kids can collect. &nbsp;Next, create a course (simply place the item to be collected at the end of a large grassy patch). &nbsp;You may choose to add cones and other obstacles to the course. Finally, place your kids into relay teams (I like about 5 kids per group) and line them up on an "end line" before your course. &nbsp;On your signal, the first kid on each team will run the course and grab an item. &nbsp;Depending on the desired outcome, you can have them run back and simply read the word, define the word, solve the math equation, etc. &nbsp;You may also choose to have them sort the item collected (greater than 10/less than 10, CVC or CVCe words, odd/even, complete sentence/incomplete sentence - make sense?) &nbsp;This one is hard to put into words, so let me show you a few examples from over the years . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6SJbJ7MXZw/Vj9oAsEzZ4I/AAAAAAAASYk/LD-5TrBpSUk/s1600/PLACE%2BVALUE%2BPE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6SJbJ7MXZw/Vj9oAsEzZ4I/AAAAAAAASYk/LD-5TrBpSUk/s400/PLACE%2BVALUE%2BPE.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>PLACE VALUE PE</b><br />Hula Hoops held a digit card.<br />The related place value cards were face down at mid-course.<br />The kids ran the course, snagged a card, and sorted it into the correct hula hoop.<br />A great way to break up the LONG math block.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izL8VmnAY-Y/Vj9oAi2emkI/AAAAAAAASYs/aIGYUxQevrk/s1600/MATH%2BFACT%2BRELAY%2BRACES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-izL8VmnAY-Y/Vj9oAi2emkI/AAAAAAAASYs/aIGYUxQevrk/s320/MATH%2BFACT%2BRELAY%2BRACES.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>MATH FACT RELAY RACES</b><br />The kids collected a ball at the end of the course.<br />On the way back to their line, they calculated the sum or difference.<br />Before the next teammate could jet, they screamed out the correct answer :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtzFeV1JJo4/Vj9oAjVy-jI/AAAAAAAASYo/v1bfgDkJrr4/s1600/SENENCE%2BRELAY%2BRACE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtzFeV1JJo4/Vj9oAjVy-jI/AAAAAAAASYo/v1bfgDkJrr4/s400/SENENCE%2BRELAY%2BRACE.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>SENTENCE RELAY RACES</b><br />The kids collected a card and read the sentence to me.<br />They determined if it was complete or incomplete and returned to their line.<br />The next student in line repeated the steps.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggDmTOtrlAU/Vj9q9vqoGHI/AAAAAAAASZI/2hQ8YnJB8xQ/s1600/ABC%2BACTIVE%2BSORTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggDmTOtrlAU/Vj9q9vqoGHI/AAAAAAAASZI/2hQ8YnJB8xQ/s400/ABC%2BACTIVE%2BSORTS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b>TEACH KINDER?</b><br />No problem . . . this can work for you too.<br />Start with MOB RACES - line everyone up on the end line (no teams to start).<br />Have them collect an item and bring it back - you just need more items for this version.<br />This photo shows an upper vs. lower case collection activity.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HkQmguqbWXg/Vj-xODvGARI/AAAAAAAASaQ/SK54SsuOIHo/s1600/DSCN0849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HkQmguqbWXg/Vj-xODvGARI/AAAAAAAASaQ/SK54SsuOIHo/s320/DSCN0849.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>GOT RAIN?</b><br />No problem . . . just set up an obstacle course inside.<br />This gal was zig-zaggin' her way through Short I words.<br />Engagement was through the roof and my kinders loved taking their shoes off!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The possibilities are endless with this one. &nbsp;They absolutely love getting out and they don't even know that they are learning . . . can you say teacher WIN??!!</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">**A quick disclaimer here . . . there</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;is still a place for awesome PE games such as kickball and number soccer, but relay races with embedded standards can easily fit into the PE rotation. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>MUSICAL TRANSITIONS</u></b></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I am all about using music in the classroom to help further understanding and break up lessons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>There are oodles of resources out there and, in my opinion, you just have to make time for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>In addition to concept-based songs (that’s a post for another day), I love movement songs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span><a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/store/music/cd-mp3/" target="_blank">Ron Brown’s Intelli-Tunes</a> has the most engaging tunes that help get those wiggles out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I have actually partnered up with this awesome guy to offer some great new song packets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I’m not talking about songs that you have to sing to your kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>These sets include professionally recorded MP3s with embedded movement ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>All you have to do is push play to start your next brain break!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span><o:p></o:p></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kelley-Dolling-Teacher-Idea-Factory/Category/Songs-MP3s-Lyrics-More-" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BQgacMN6zew/Vj90sLdm42I/AAAAAAAASZ0/WcJ9jitxPYI/s400/BRAIN%2BBREAK%2BPOST.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">I’ll spill the beans a little here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Ron is my dad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>He is the music man in my eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>When I taught K for one VERY long year, I begged him to create me some tunes to help me keep a handle on those little guys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>He did just that for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>These tunes proved to be life saving YEAR AFTER YEAR.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I still use them in first grade and the kids eat them up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>BEAN BAGS</u></span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">This may sound stupid, but I pull these out in a pinch on more than occasion each year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I keep them in an easy to access location and quickly break them out when need be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I run this one of two ways . . . teacher directions given on the fly (bounce it on your head, toss it from hand to hand, tap it on your toes, etc.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>or mirroring the helper of the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Both are quick and easy and the kids dig getting to play with these for a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>There is just something special about those little bags of beans :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>KOO KOO, MR. CAT, AND FRIENDS</u></b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Most of us have heard of GoNoodle by now.</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">For those of you who signed up last year and didn’t get around to using it, put this in your teaching arsenal.</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">It is a must have teaching tool and the kids will beg to play. And lets face it . . . I’ll be able to get some cardio in too (it's a good thing since the gym hasn't seen my face since August).</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">GoNoodle is one of my favorite classroom resources and they are always updating the site.</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp; </span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">The best thing is that it is FREE!!!!</span><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wbaAacczACY/Vj9sUqi7u0I/AAAAAAAASZY/h_zKe63wQBE/s1600/IMG_7677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wbaAacczACY/Vj9sUqi7u0I/AAAAAAAASZY/h_zKe63wQBE/s400/IMG_7677.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Body Spelling . . . um, yes please!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IknPpPDknug/Vj9sUt2vTII/AAAAAAAASZU/VTjKEbMaFY8/s1600/IMG_7768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IknPpPDknug/Vj9sUt2vTII/AAAAAAAASZU/VTjKEbMaFY8/s400/IMG_7768.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Those Koo Koo guys had as at hello.<br />We love Cat Party!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.gonoodle.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b3TET0KuSeQ/Vj9sVYuggiI/AAAAAAAASZc/OYwE0CKYIc4/s320/600px_GN_Blue_Flower_Logo.png" width="309" /></a></div><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">JANE FONDA IT</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Okay, so we all have those moments when we need to liven things up or eliminate wiggles without ANY sort of prep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Here’s an easy solution<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>. . . JANE FONDA IT.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>(Yes, I am dating myself with that title, but the concept works.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>All you need for this one is to be able to think on your feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Have your kids stand and do some workout moves attached to standards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>For example, lead your kiddos in some jumping jacks while skip counting by 5s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>You could do some squats while saying the months of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>Um . . . have your babes do some yoga moves while reciting the facts to ten.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>The possibilities are endless and you don’t have to prepare anything!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d91qY_dSVRg/Vj91PRrOc2I/AAAAAAAASZ8/yD2odGngnEI/s1600/IMG_4688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d91qY_dSVRg/Vj91PRrOc2I/AAAAAAAASZ8/yD2odGngnEI/s320/IMG_4688.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">No, I haven't been drinking. &nbsp;I am just a dork.<br />I use this picture in various presentations when I talk about this stuff.<br />It seemed fitting as a dippy "close" today.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: &quot;verdana&quot; , sans-serif;">Well, there you have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; A handful of</span>&nbsp;ideas on using brain breaks to create seamless transitions and boost student engagement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>If you have any other ideas, please feel free to comment below . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>I’d love to hear 'em.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>Thanks so much for visiting me today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp; </span>I’ll be back again soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><br />http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/11/transition-tips-brain-break-ideas-to.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-3286359143787654628Sun, 18 Oct 2015 15:05:00 +00002015-10-18T08:05:28.791-07:00WEEKLY REWIND - ADJECTIVES, MATH, AND QUESTION MARKS<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I see a pattern emerging in these posts. It seems that I can't make it to the party on time . . . I guess I am a Sunday share kind of a gal :) &nbsp;I'm not going to fight it. &nbsp;Instead, I will just blog on and not look back!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a little peek at last week. &nbsp;The class and I found ourselves mixed up in all sorts of different things. &nbsp;Just see for yourself . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>ADJECTIVE PUMPKINS</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is one of my favorite fall craftivities. &nbsp;Not only does it teach students about the power of adjectives, but it also produces some of the best kid art a teacher could ask for. &nbsp;These look stellar up on our wall . . . love seeing the imagination that was poured into these.</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-csM4vohDAMA/ViOd--W89UI/AAAAAAAASTU/hRNbWFZprrA/s1600/IMG_7658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-csM4vohDAMA/ViOd--W89UI/AAAAAAAASTU/hRNbWFZprrA/s400/IMG_7658.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The kids selected an adjective to build their pumpkin around. <br />Up top we have little, adorable, and pretty.<br />Down below we have fancy and spooky.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week we will follow up with oodles of related adjective activities. &nbsp;This craft is part of my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Adjective-Pumpkins-Craftivity-Center-Activities-365208" target="_blank">Adjective Pumpkins Pack</a>. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>FALL-FLAVORED MATH</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Math centers have been a must in the afternoon. &nbsp;Rotations are the perfect way to in more standards and spiral review . . . and let's face it . . . some days they are kinda sick of hearing my voice by the time 1:15 rolls around :) &nbsp;With this said, we rolled, spun, graphed, and teamed up to work our way through some tricky concepts.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v_Lif7fK0FA/ViOswVoHUzI/AAAAAAAASUU/6rIftmKrPJY/s1600/IMG_7630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v_Lif7fK0FA/ViOswVoHUzI/AAAAAAAASUU/6rIftmKrPJY/s320/IMG_7630.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pumpkin Graph &amp; Spin</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5Wher7c5Uc/ViOswfUVjhI/AAAAAAAASUY/WCF62f_Uq3w/s1600/IMG_7635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C5Wher7c5Uc/ViOswfUVjhI/AAAAAAAASUY/WCF62f_Uq3w/s320/IMG_7635.jpg" width="218" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Going Batty for Missing Addends&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhIX7zaYiIo/ViOswX2ma0I/AAAAAAAASUQ/novVi_LJKhQ/s1600/IMG_7639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhIX7zaYiIo/ViOswX2ma0I/AAAAAAAASUQ/novVi_LJKhQ/s320/IMG_7639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Falling Into Subtraction<br />(A little pumpkin seed snack helps the math flow.)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are looking for some <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Centers-October-Common-Core-1st-Grade-1477654" target="_blank">October Themed Math Centers</a> for firsties, I have a&nbsp;collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;They are aligned to the CCSS and incorporate many of the concepts found in Module One of Engage NY. &nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh, and while I am on the subject of fall flavored goodies, be sure you check out the Haunted Hop that I am participating in this week. &nbsp;There are tons of fun FREEBIES up for grabs to get you through the rest of this month and part of November!</span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgCHmVlcPpQ/ViOzqtsPQQI/AAAAAAAASVs/ZYdjueOnH0o/s1600/Slide1-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sgCHmVlcPpQ/ViOzqtsPQQI/AAAAAAAASVs/ZYdjueOnH0o/s1600/Slide1-300x300.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/10/haunted-hop-scare-up-some-free-goods_17.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> . . . <br />and magically transport to this blog hop!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>DOUBLES</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Doubles facts are no match for the kids in Room 18. To help us master these fun facts, we sang <a href="http://www.intelli-tunes.com/store/music/cd-mp3/math-songs/math-concepts-i-and-ii.html" target="_blank">Ron Brown's Doubles Song</a>, made some doubles flash cards to keep in our desks, and completed Latoya Reed's awesome <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Doubles-887495" target="_blank">Doubles Mini-Book</a>. &nbsp;It's a freebie in her shop . . . SCORE!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1U9yPt0hbPc/ViOpz9pOYVI/AAAAAAAAST4/xIaWRz3WATw/s1600/IMG_7597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1U9yPt0hbPc/ViOpz9pOYVI/AAAAAAAAST4/xIaWRz3WATw/s320/IMG_7597.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Doubles Flash Cards<br />The perfect 3-5 minute transition :)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYm4AaRfE3k/ViOqY6uyccI/AAAAAAAASUE/BYsx7vVqZIo/s1600/IMG_7605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYm4AaRfE3k/ViOqY6uyccI/AAAAAAAASUE/BYsx7vVqZIo/s400/IMG_7605.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This Doubles Mini-Book was a hit!<br />Thanks, Ms. Reed!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>QUESTIONS (CAPTAIN QUESTION MARK)</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After focusing on the 3 Kinds of Sentences last week, we narrowed our scope to take an in depth look at questions. &nbsp;The kids met Captain Question Mark and I have yet to see a backwards "hook" since this fancy introduction (read all about the Captain in last year's post . . . <a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2014/09/tired-of-backward-question-marks-dont.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>).</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GxOQwuO6xyg/ViOvGnRN_II/AAAAAAAASUs/uvU1_Diwol0/s1600/Slide04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GxOQwuO6xyg/ViOvGnRN_II/AAAAAAAASUs/uvU1_Diwol0/s400/Slide04.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In addition to our Oscar-worthy acting, the kids sorted and wrote oodles of questions this week. &nbsp;We even used the whole mystery box concept in a new way. &nbsp;The crew knocked it out of the park!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O2-BIl15uYo/ViOvn5LNh5I/AAAAAAAASU0/ecoYcAtqWIY/s1600/IMG_7570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O2-BIl15uYo/ViOvn5LNh5I/AAAAAAAASU0/ecoYcAtqWIY/s320/IMG_7570.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sorting questions and statements.<br />Of course the question mark looks like a hook . . . themed learning rocks!&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z-vsCac9axQ/ViOvoNGrp_I/AAAAAAAASU4/IZFT--V7v1c/s1600/IMG_7574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z-vsCac9axQ/ViOvoNGrp_I/AAAAAAAASU4/IZFT--V7v1c/s320/IMG_7574.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OIDFxmsKTDY/ViOvoBryLMI/AAAAAAAASU8/h0IVPq58gLc/s1600/IMG_7578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OIDFxmsKTDY/ViOvoBryLMI/AAAAAAAASU8/h0IVPq58gLc/s320/IMG_7578.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: center;">We used topic cards to generate oodles of questions this week. &nbsp;</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I this in conjunction with <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fall-Leaves-Writing-Prompts-and-Craft-906837" target="_blank">Primarily Speaking's Leaf Craft</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">These look amazing in our window :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ye8nt5C-c2M/ViOw9bm1UqI/AAAAAAAASVY/6oXBODoPO50/s1600/IMG_4185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ye8nt5C-c2M/ViOw9bm1UqI/AAAAAAAASVY/6oXBODoPO50/s400/IMG_4185.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fall is in full force around here!<br />(Even though it was in the 90s all last week . . . sigh.)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mH-_zuefK94/ViOvqOBmaII/AAAAAAAASVM/2XDMHA29leg/s1600/IMG_7627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mH-_zuefK94/ViOvqOBmaII/AAAAAAAASVM/2XDMHA29leg/s400/IMG_7627.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We used the mystery box in a new way.<br />It had to be a treasure box to go with my Captain Question Mark theme :)<br />Instead of writing a guess as to what was inside, the kids wrote questions.<br />I answered all of them and the crew had the chance to guess what was hiding inside!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These activities are pretty easy to put together on your own, but if you are looking for a themed packet that has every base covered, check out my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Punctuation-Captain-Question-Mark-1454837" target="_blank">Captain Question Mark</a> collection. &nbsp;It's a fun one :)</span><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WRITING SERIES - PART II</span></span></b><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of writing, I finally finished part two of my Writing Series. &nbsp;I poured my heart and soul into this post as writing is my absolute favorite thing to teach. &nbsp;There are oodles of unique ideas up for grabs that have proven to work wonders for first and second graders. &nbsp;I promise that it's worth the <a href="http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/10/bulding-dynamite-writers-in-1st-grade.html" target="_blank">CLICK</a> :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZknvHiTrNlE/ViOye6iOioI/AAAAAAAASVk/9A2zjC3rP5M/s1600/Building%2BBetter%2BWriters_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZknvHiTrNlE/ViOye6iOioI/AAAAAAAASVk/9A2zjC3rP5M/s400/Building%2BBetter%2BWriters_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Alright, I am out of here. It's time for me to finish prepping for the week . . . we are rollin' into spiders. Eeek!!! &nbsp;Big hugs and happy Sunday to you!</span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/10/weekly-rewind-adjectives-math-and.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6252407913156713872.post-1338401518443384423Sat, 17 Oct 2015 13:35:00 +00002015-10-17T06:41:00.659-07:00HAUNTED HOP . . . SCARE UP SOME FREE GOODS<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fall is in full swing and maybe your planning could use a little pick me up? &nbsp;I know that I have been jonesing for some new material :)</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, you're in luck. &nbsp;Some of your favorite TPT sellers have joined&nbsp;forces&nbsp;to make your&nbsp;fall just a tad bit easier via the Haunted Halloween Hop!</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmOoRFCuREA/ViJMfwahBHI/AAAAAAAASSY/WbRyJPBbHw4/s1600/Slide2-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmOoRFCuREA/ViJMfwahBHI/AAAAAAAASSY/WbRyJPBbHw4/s1600/Slide2-300x300.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can coare all of these AMAZING goodies . . .&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7gJm4EJngZo/ViJMpV7uTnI/AAAAAAAASSg/md-Exshw5R0/s1600/Slide1-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7gJm4EJngZo/ViJMpV7uTnI/AAAAAAAASSg/md-Exshw5R0/s320/Slide1-300x300.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, here's what you need to do . . .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. &nbsp;Visit each blog on the loop for directions to snag their Secret Word. &nbsp;Make sure to follow each seller pretty please.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. &nbsp;Write down each seller's Secret Word on this handy-dandy <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8dA6HT6oHdda2l3Z0k1UGZpZmc/view" target="_blank">Cheat Sheet</a>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OyugMKp0ZN4/ViJNF5tjvPI/AAAAAAAASSo/o92hDSnUstA/s1600/Cheat-Sheet-233x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OyugMKp0ZN4/ViJNF5tjvPI/AAAAAAAASSo/o92hDSnUstA/s1600/Cheat-Sheet-233x300.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. &nbsp;Submit all of your secret words on the Google Form (the prize pack will be emailed to you shortly thereafter).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>**PLEASE NOTE - because some of the sellers have secret words waiting for you on their TPT banner, you will need to visit their store using a computer - not a mobile device.**</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you ready to get started?? &nbsp;I thought you might be ;)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Okay, so from my store, you can score my October Sentence Writing Warm-Ups Packet. &nbsp;It contains 75 pages of LEVELIZED writing warm ups for K-1 kiddos and 2nd grade intervention. &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sentence-Writing-Warm-Ups-October-2116587" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wx_OF7pqlMk/ViJOXWMYpLI/AAAAAAAASS0/Q5nHGkSoeFg/s320/Sentence%2BWriting%2BWarm%2BUps.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkcKJi4LF0I/ViJOZgZjDiI/AAAAAAAASS8/2oxw3oONWek/s1600/Sentence%2BWriting%2BWarm%2BUps%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkcKJi4LF0I/ViJOZgZjDiI/AAAAAAAASS8/2oxw3oONWek/s320/Sentence%2BWriting%2BWarm%2BUps%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Want a copy? &nbsp;All you have to do is pop over and "follow" me on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Teacher-Idea-Factory-276945959046560/?ref=tn_tnmn" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a> (if you don't do so already). &nbsp;Be sure to write down my Secret Word as you'll need that for your&nbsp;cheat&nbsp;sheet. &nbsp; &nbsp;</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't stop here! &nbsp;Be sure to head over to the always amazing <a href="http://www.aburstoffirst.com/2015/10/the-haunted-hop.html" target="_blank">A Burst of First</a> to see which amazing goody she is sharing. &nbsp;Thanks for visiting and happy Saturday to you!!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>http://teacherideafactory.blogspot.com/2015/10/haunted-hop-scare-up-some-free-goods_17.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kelley Dolling)5